Diwali in London this 2010
London, the essence of Britishness and the home of the Queen. And quite frankly the constant venue for an abundance of events, Halloween and Christmas celebrations taking place this autumn/winter season. This cosmopolitan and cultural hot bed is really going all out this year so those of you that are lucky enough to be in the British capital should take advantage and enjoy what this exciting city has to offer. Thus our next suggestion, amongst all the other events on offer this October, is the Hindu Diwali in the Square Festival of Lights celebration taking place in Trafalgar Square, London on Sunday the 31st of October from 2 until 6.30 pm.
So, what is Diwali? Diwali is an important five-day festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains usually taking place between mid-October and mid-November, and is an event that is usually celebrated throughout India and many other countries.
The Festival of Lights that is part of this 5 day festival is celebrated by people of all nationalities, races and religions, an event that truly reflects the cultural richness and diversity of this fantastic city. “It celebrates the triumphant victory of good over evil- and the glory of light over darkness, a beam of hope over despair,” hence all the lights. In addition, Diwali short for Deepavali,´ means a row of lamps` and supposedly marks a new beginning, a renewal of commitment to family values, and represents the good virtues that we seek such as love, reflection, forgiveness, and knowledge. So as you can see it is quite a symbolic event.
The main attractions in this emblematic celebration include traditional Garba dances (2-3pm,) an opening ceremony with Diwali messages (3.15-3.30pm), stage shows (3.30-6pm) and devotional songs (6-6.30pm), plus stalls, displays, food and atmospheric light displays comprising a great contribution to the cultural vibrancy of London.
So, if you would like to release your spiritual side, find inner peace, and enjoy the underlying theme of peace and mutual respect that is promoted by this enchanting festival organised by the Diwali in London committee in London, then head on down to Trafalgar Square in London that is hosting this illuminating event.
