Vikas Khanna joins Amritsar farmers for Diwali

Khanna, who originally hails from Amritsar and is now an internationally acclaimed master-chef, headed straight for the event after landing at the international airport, President of Dilbir Foundation and chair EcoAmritsar Gunbir Singh said.

The fest was part of the weekly marketplace of organic products held by the Dilbir Foundation.

"A divine effort has been made in my city and I am delighted to have witnessed it," Khanna said after visiting the marketplace.

"He tasted salted chhaach made from cow's milk and marvelled at the taste. He also appreciated other items," Gunbir Singh said.

The marketplace on Sunday had a potter spinning out fresh diyas for Diwali, along with other clay and terracotta products.

Exotic vegetables such as broccoli, red and yellow capsicums, delicious and golden variety apples, as well as fresh kiwi from farms were new additions to the fest.

"Most satisfying is the excitement in the farm circles about a growing demand for natural produce, and more farmers are now willing to shun chemicals and get into the pure foods movement by producing non-toxic foods," Gunbir Singh said.

Sikh holy city Amritsar is about 250 km from Chandigarh.