Diwali, the Festival of Lights, will be held in Waitakere on September 25 at the Trusts Stadium in Henderson.
The first part of the programme (at 11 am) will consist of a colourful presentation of rich Indian culture and tradition on the Diwali theme.
The evening programme, commencing at or about 6 pm, will comprise a solemn Diwali Pooja theme and cultural items depicting the message of Diwali.
This year’s festival will also feature ‘Ram Leela’ drama performed by the students of Waitakere Hindi Language & Cultural School.
As in the past, the Waitakere Indian Association is organising the Festival in partnership with the Auckland City Council, ANZ Bank, Radio Tarana and the Trusts Community Foundation.
We work closely with the Indian community in Waitakere to present a programme that would appeal to all ethnic groups resident in the greater Auckland region.
It is a matter of gratification that more than 20,000 people from a cross-section of the society attended the event in 2010 and 2009.
The overwhelming support that we have received has inspired and motivated us at the Waitakere Indian Association to make this year’s event bigger and better than its predecessors.
Symbolic Festival
Diwali symbolises the victory of life over death, good over evil and light over darkness. The afternoon programme will be full of music, cultural items and merry making in the style of Bollywood and contemporary entertainment.
The Waitakere Indian Association initiated the Diwali Festival in 2000. It has grown from strength to strength over the years, encouraging the City Council to develop a closer relationship to celebrate the event.
Our objective is to evince the interest of the wider Kiwi communities and attract their participation.
Among the highlights of Festival 2011 would an indoor laser show with traditional and modern dances, followed by a spectacular fireworks display outside the Stadium.
We look forward to your participation and contribution to ensure that we live up to the high expectations and present a programme that will be enjoyed by all communities.
An invitation
If you are interested in presenting a cultural item, demonstrating arts and crafts and ‘Rangoli,’ please visit our website (www.wia.net.nz), download the application forms and send it to us with the relevant details filled.
Editor’s Note: Manoj Tahal is former President of the Waitakere Indian Association and Project Manager of Waitakere Diwali 2011. He can be contacted on 021-564757. Email: manojtahal@xtra.co.nz