Next weekend will see London’s Trafalgar Square transformed by magical light displays, and floating lanterns in the fountains when the capital’s Indian and other Asian communities join to mark Diwali – the festival of light – which has religious significance for Hindus, Sikhs and Jains.
The event has been organised by Mayor of London Ken Livingstone in association with the Diwali in LondonTeam, and is presented in partnership with airline bmi which operates a daily service between Heathrow and Mumbai.
The Mayor said it gave him “great pleasure to send my best wishes to all those celebrating the joyous festival of Diwali, which is a wonderful festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains throughout the world.”
Livingstone said the festival “has significance and meaning for all of London’s communities” adding that “all Londoners are welcome to attend.”
Festivities start at 4pm next Sunday (15th October) and will include a series of dance and live music performances including the chart topping pop star Raghav, who will perform a medley of songs including the reggae / ‘RnB’ anthem ‘Angel Eyes’, and classical musicians Kalakaar.
Spokesperson from Diwali in London Team, Nitin Palan, said”This is one of the biggest festivals outside India and what is so wonderful about this event is how the community works together to make this event happen – it is for the community by the community”
bmi’s Kabir Naido said the airline were “delighted to be involved with this year’s Diwali on the Square” describing it as “an absolute honour to light up Trafalgar Square and join in the celebrations of this joyous event.”
