A record-breaking event took place in Ayodhya as over 26 lakh earthen lamps were lit on Chhoti Diwali, earning the city two Guinness World Records. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accepted the accolades. In sports news, Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma struggled against Australia, getting out early to Starc and Hazlewood. Gold prices dropped by Rs 2,400 and silver by Rs 7,000 per kg before Diwali, despite strong Dhanteras sales.
Due to deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, GRAP-2 restrictions were implemented, limiting construction and industrial activities. Meanwhile, US forces destroyed a suspected drug-carrying submarine in the Caribbean, with President Trump suggesting it could have caused mass casualties if it reached land.
Here’s a summary of today’s top stories. Stay updated before you sign off for the day.
Ayodhya’s Diwali Celebration Sets World Records with River of Lamps and Aarti
Ayodhya, known as the city of Lord Rama, achieved a historic feat by lighting over 26 lakh diyas and earning two Guinness World Records on Chhoti Diwali. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath received the Guinness World Records certificates. Read here
India’s Top Order Falters Against Australia Due to Starc and Hazlewood’s Bowling
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli faced challenges in their return to international cricket against Australia on October 19. The Indian top order struggled against Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood’s pace and bounce at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were dismissed early, scoring only 8 and 0 runs respectively. Read here
Gold and Silver Prices Drop as Dhanteras Shopping Peaks
Gold prices saw a decline of Rs 2,400 to reach Rs 1,32,400 per 10 grams in the national capital on Saturday, amidst high Dhanteras sales across the country. The All India Sarafa Association reported that the 99.9% pure precious metal had surged to a record high of Rs 1,34,800 per 10 grams on Friday. <a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/business/story/dhanteras-2025-gold-falls-rs-2400-silver-drops-rs-7000-as-shoppers-rush-in-2805273-2025-10-18