Celebrating Diwali

People who attended Bromsgrove’s second celebrations for the Diwali festival in October have praised the event.

Over 150 people from all sections of the community and of all ages came together to celebrate the Indian festival of light in the Spadesbourne Suite at the Council House on Sunday 18th October in a multi-faith and multi-culture event.

There was music and entertainment and special family art workshops where children and their parents made window decorations which will be used in future community celebrations.

Council Leader, Councillor Roger Hollingworth, said: “We are very pleased that, having made this event an annual celebration, this year was an even greater success than last year.

“It is always rewarding to see different sections of the community working together, sharing enjoyment of different cultures and helping build links between the various communities throughout the District.”

Comments received from attendees at the event included:

“From beginning to end a delightful event. Most enjoyable.”

“All aspects of the events were well taken care of. Everyone, from infants to grandparents seemed to be happy.”

“The organisers obviously put in a lot of effort and voluntary work. The presence of the Chairman added to our enjoyment. It was happy social mix of Indian (Hindu/ Sikh) and the British communities.”

“May Bromsgrove enjoy for long this healthy and strong multicultural tradition.”

Diwali is the most popular of all festivals from South Asia and is celebrated by Jains and Sikhs as well as Hindus.

Fiona Scott, Equality Officer for Bromsgrove District Council, said: “The festival of Diwali extends over five days and celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

“In India and all over the world, wherever there are people of the Indian Diaspora, the festival is a time for thoroughly spring cleaning the home and for wearing new clothes and most importantly, decorating buildings with fancy lights and we are delighted that we have been able to be a part of it this year.”