Diwali in London

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights is being celebrated this Sunday 28 October at a free event in London’s Trafalgar Square called Diwali on the Square. Diwali, meaning a row of lamps, is traditionally observed over a five day period and marks a new beginning for Hindus with a commitment to family values and the virtues of love, reflection, forgiveness and knowledge.

Sunday’s event runs from 12 noon-8pm features traditional Indian garba folk dancing, a children’s fancy dress parade and a Sikh martial arts display along with sari wearing demonstrations. The main stage will have music and dance performances including classical Bharata Natyam dances, folk dances, a fisherwoman’s dance, a Holi dance, a Jain dance and Bhangra. One of the afternoon’s themes is Symbols of India and this will be celebrated with a peacock dance, lotus dance, snake dance and dances commemorating India’s 60 years of independence.

There will also be stalls open in the square offering some tasty food, henna painting and Diwali related items. The day will finish off with a prayer at 8pm.