It would be an evening of cultural rhapsody and cross-border interaction at the War Memorial Hall in Wanganui on November 12 as the Festival of Lights illuminates the human mind and soul.
“We are a small but well-knit community, participating in all festivities organised in Wanganui. Every one joins the celebrations in a spirit of oneness, goodwill and understanding. Diwali is one such festival which brings together people of all ethnic groups,” Vijeshwar Prasad, President of the Multicultural Council of Rangitikei & Wanganui said.
Mr Prasad, who is also the National Treasurer of the Wellington based Federation of Multicultural Councils and Head of the Department of Commerce & Computing at the Rangitikei College, said that a Food Expo will be held from 4 pm to 645 pm as a part of the Diwali Festival.
“Visitors will have the opportunity of purchasing and tasting a number of vegetarian dishes and mingle with local town people.
“The cultural programme, scheduled to be held from 7 pm to 930 pm, will include a cross-section of the communities, celebrating our multi-ethnicity. The programme is open to all with free entry,” he said.
The programme will accord ample opportunities for the younger members of the society to display their talent.
Mr Prasad said the Multicultural Council of Rangitikei & Wanganui is a non-profit organisation registered by the Charities Commission and run by volunteers to support ethnic communities and others in need.
“We continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing life style of migrants. We are professional, innovative and strongly forward focused,” he said.
According to him, the Council aims to promote understanding, preserve ethnic customs, languages, religions, sports and cultures, and share them with the community of Rangitikei and Wanganui.
“We also support the rights of the ethnic individuals or groups to enjoy equal opportunities, to receive equal protection under the law, and to have equitable access to community resources,” he said.
The Council meets every third Thursday of the month at 730 pm at 221 Victoria Avenue, Wanganui.
Further information can be obtained from Vijeshwar Prasad on (06) 3438128 or 021-2133274. Email: info@wanganuimulticultural.co.nz
Website: www.wanganuimulticultural.co.nz
