Residents of the Waikato region in general and Hamilton in particular would have a ‘double treat’ as two organisations plan to celebrate Diwali on two different days, albeit one following the other.
GOPIO (October 23)
Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Waikato Inc will host a ‘Diwali Night’ along with Indianz Global and the members of the Hamilton Indian community on October 23 at the Celebrating Age Centre.
The event will begin at 630 pm but GOPIO Waikato President Suman Kapoor has said that gates would be open at 530 pm to enable people to occupy better seats.
A traditional Hindu and Maori welcome will commence the proceedings.
“Diwali is about unity, goodwill and understanding and hence the theme of the Festival this year is ‘Social Harmony and Indian culture and heritage.’ The Festival will incorporate a number of activities that promote the traditional values of India,” she said.
The evening’s programme will include Rangoli, Henna, information on Health and Beauty, Yoga, Meditation and Pranic Healing, she said.
“The entertainment segment will include participation of children and spot prizes.
“A number of performers of Chinese, Indian, Filipino and Thai origin will present their national items, conforming to the evening’s theme of community solidarity through culture and heritage. Poems and songs will be rendered in several Indian languages,” Ms Kapoor said.
She said Indian cuisine will be a highlight of the evening.
Ms Kapoor appealed to the people for donations, which will be earmarked for charity.
Further information can be obtained from her on (07) 8392738 or 021-1801234
Indian Cultural Society (October 24)
Founders Theatre in Hamilton will be the venue for the Festival of Lights on October 24.
Organised by the Indian Cultural Society Inc, the three-and-half-hours programme, commencing at 6 pm, 
will comprise variety entertainment.
Secretary Roy Vellara said about 200 local artistes will participate in the event with their music, dance and other performances.
The Festival will mark the 20th Anniversary of the Society, he said.
“Five dance troops from Auckland, Waikato and Hamilton will present Classical, Semi-Classical and folk dances will be portrayed on the stage. A professional group from Auckland will present a Fashion Show as a part of our anniversary celebrations,” Mr Vellara said.
The programme will begin at 6 pm and food packets will be distributed to all guests.
“Entry tickets, priced at $10 are available at a number of outlets,” Mr Vellara said.
For further details contact him on (07) 8501434. Email: royvellara@hotmail.com
