New Delhi, Oct. 18 -- Dhanteras marked the onset of Diwali festivities across India on Saturday, with bustling markets and enthusiastic buyers flocking to purchase gold, silver, utensils, and other auspicious items. Despite soaring gold prices, consumer enthusiasm remained high, providing a festive boost to local economies nationwide.

Jewellery shops and markets in states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, and Goa saw heavy footfall as customers upheld the traditional buying spree.

Besides that, sweet shops have been taking the festival to a whole new level, with a Jaipur sweet shop offering mithai infused with 24-carat gold and silver.

Located in the...