The organizers of a forthcoming event dedicated to the celebration of Diwali express their hope that this festival of lights will foster unity among the diverse community of the city. The Peterborough Diwali Festival is scheduled to take place at Cathedral Square on Saturday, with an anticipated attendance of approximately 500 individuals. This year, Diwali commences on October 31 and is a significant Hindu festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil, commemorating the return of Lord Rama and his wife Sita after a 14-year exile. Nagasayan Puppala, one of the event’s organizers, noted that the number of participants and attendees has been “increasing every year,” and he finds it “heartwarming” to witness such growing enthusiasm for the celebrations. Diwali is an annual observance embraced by individuals of Hindu, Sikh, and Jain faiths.
The occasion will commence with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp and a puja dedicated to Lord Ganapathi, the revered elephant-headed deity associated with prosperity and wisdom in Hindu tradition. Throughout the festival, a total of 50 performances will be showcased, featuring a diverse array of artistic expressions, including songs and traditional Indian dance forms such as Garba, Kuchipudi, Bollywood dances, and Nepali folk dances. Attendees will also have the chance to indulge in a variety of Indian culinary delights available at the festival’s food stalls. This festival has been celebrated for the past 11 years, with numerous events held last year to commemorate its significant 10-year milestone.
The festival represented a significant occasion for the Indian diaspora in the city, who frequently find themselves separated from their families, to unite and celebrate the rich tapestry of Indian culture. The Indian community in Peterborough, which was once quite small, has experienced considerable growth over the years. Many individuals live independently, distanced from their parents and relatives, making this event a vital opportunity for connection and cultural expression. Participants take great pleasure in the festivities, proudly displaying their heritage while embracing the diversity of the community around them. The invitation extended to individuals from various backgrounds is met with enthusiasm, and it is truly uplifting to witness such a large turnout at the event. The sense of togetherness fostered by this gathering is indeed a remarkable experience.
