Organisers Gurmeed Nelson and Ashira Gosai promote the Diwali celebration and Grandparents Day to be held at the Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre. Picture: Robert Pozo
THE Indian community of Kingsgrove and St George is preparing for one of the biggest joyful festivals on the Hindu calendar.
Diwali or the Festival of Lights will be celebrated by more than 200 people, many wearing fine traditional costumes, tomorrow as part of a five-day extravaganza.
The vibrant event is combined with Grandparents Day, which is open to all seniors and grandchildren.
Diwali combines with Grandparents Day for an all-inclusive community bash. Picture: Timothy Clapin
Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre manager Anne Farah-Hill is scheduled to welcome guests at 11.30am.
Priest Pundit Paras Ram Maharaj will explain the meaning and significance of Diwali and give a blessing.
After lunch at noon, Dr Samo Srinivasan introduces the festival’s entertainment.
Tory Karmaker discusses grandparents and Diwali.
The play Hindi Bindi Lifestyle by Vedavalli Srinivasan and seniors is performed.
Songs will be sung by the RAIN Gitanjali Group and garba dancing performed by the RAIN Nrityanjali Group.
Diwali is a huge event in India. Members of the Hindu community will be dressed in traditional Indian costumes in the Kingsgrove Community Aid Centre event. Picture: Timothy Clapin
Colourful fireworks are associated with Diwali and celebrants light up diyas and candles in their homes.
They perform Laxmi Puja and seek blessings from the Goddess of Wealth.
INDIANS MARK DIWALI WITH FIREWORKS
Traditional vegetarian cuisine, including sweet treats, and the exchange of gifts add to the festivities.
The Kingsgrove festival is organised by staff from the not-for-profit community centre with the support of Hurstville Council and the Resourceful Australian Indian Network.
WHAT: Diwali Celebration and Grandparents Day
WHERE: Kingsgrove Community Aid centre, 30 Morgan St, Kingsgrove
WHEN: Wednesday, October 22, 10.30am-2pm
Bookings essential, gold coin donations appreciated
CONTACT: Phone Gurmeed Nelson on 9150 7823 for more information