Diwali on the Square

Diwali on the Square

21 October, 2008
by: Claire_loves_jam

Arriving in Trafalgar Square just in time to witness Boris Johnson extolling the virtues of Wikipedia in his quest to derive the true meaning of Diwali, we knew we were in for an entertaining evening.

Thousands gathered for the seventh annual festival of lights, comprising a melting pot of all nationalities, races and religions out to enjoy the singing, dancing and lamp-lighting ceremonies. Even the most hardened of atheists may grudgingly concede that the world would be a little less colourful and sparkly without events like this.

Traditionally Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over dark – as a major Indian festival it holds great significance to Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the globe. The festival’s origin is associated with various myths; some believe Diwali marks the homecoming of King Rama who returned triumphant after defeating the evil Ravana in a 14-year long battle, whereas others believe it’s the day on which the goddess Lakshmi was rescued from an evil king. Either way, good v bad remains an over-riding theme for the day.

Fittingly, with Diwali marking new beginnings and renewal of commitment and hope, an abundance of happy, enthusiastic revelers sees the 2008 celebrations into the night in style. Many styles of dance including Kathak from North India, Oddissi dancers from Orissa, classical Bharata Natyam, contemporary dance and a bit of Bhangra bring the drama, vibrant colour and energy of Indian culture to life on stage. Bollywood, eat your heart out.

After musical medleys from Chinmaya Mission and a special live performance of Jay Kumar’s festival anthem song, the evening winds down with traditional prayers and singing with lamps to bring another, thankfully rain-free, Diwali to a peaceful close. 

Claire_loves_jam