On the 27th of November 2023, Hackney’s council announced that everyone was more than welcome to join in the celebration of Diwali. The council has organised family-friendly activities for those who want to join in. The local library has also joined in and offered services of their own. Amongst the celebration were Bollywood dancing, henna, refreshments and more…
One library worker said:
“Diwali is an occasion for people to come together and celebrate the tradition of Indian culture.” The council had also been funding the temple to provide the services and has allowed the locals to attend it for free.
In 2024 Hackney did it again by organising a celebration of Diwali to which anyone interested could get tickets on the platform EventBrite.
The event took place on the 25th of October, it was a great success as approximately 3800 people attended it. The library EventBrite account currently still has 398 followers which only confirms how successful and positive their efforts on inclusivity have been.
Since the 50s a large percentage of the area has been populated by the South Asian community with the largest percentage of them being Indian. The majority of the community coming from Bangladesh and Pakistan follow Islam however there are several Hindu and Sikh locals. Shirdi Sai Baba the only temple in Hackney has hosted a free show where those interested can learn more about the message, religious belief, and culture behind the celebration.
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Diwali is a celebration of lights, a victory of the Lord Rama over the demon Ravana after a 14-year exile. It is a celebration of joy meant to be shared with many hence why the local community is willing to celebrate with as many people as they possibly can. The celebration was created to bring the community together in a joyous celebration. It is also a celebration of knowledge winning over ignorance which may also be a motivator for the many to educate themselves and others about the traditions and culture.
In India Diwali lasts about 5 days, the Festival of Lights is a time of renewal, prosperity, and unity, celebrated over five enchanting days. The festivities begin with Dhanteras, families cleanse their homes and make auspicious purchases to welcome prosperity. The second day sees homes illuminated by multiple diyas (clay lamps), while vibrant rangoli designs adorn doorsteps, symbolizing hope and good fortune. The heart of Diwali unfolds on the third day with Lakshmi Puja, a sacred tradition where families gather to seek blessings from Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and success. The celebration continues on the fourth day with gifts and sweets, strengthening bonds and spreading joy.
Finally, Bhai Dooj honors the bond between siblings, reinforcing love and lifelong commitment. Diwali is more than a festival it is a celebration of light, unity, and new beginnings, bringing communities together in a spirit of joy and renewal.
This makes it easier to understand the clear message from both Hackney council and the south asian hindu community has been clear. Everybody is welcome to celebrate Diwali and enjoy the celebration.
Bibliography:
Diwali: A festival of lights and joy (no date) Incredible India. Available at: https://www.incredibleindia.gov.in/en/festivals-and-events/diwali#:~:text=Diwali%20is%20a%20jubilant%20proclamation%20of%20light%27s%20triumphant,rituals%20and%20festivities%20that%20you%20can%20experience%20firsthand. (Accessed: 03 February 2025).
Diwali: A festival of lights and joy (no date) Incredible India. Available at: https://www.incredibleindia.gov.in/en/festivals-and-events/diwali#:~:text=Diwali%20is%20a%20jubilant%20proclamation%20of%20light%27s%20triumphant,rituals%20and%20festivities%20that%20you%20can%20experience%20firsthand. (Accessed: 03 February 2025).
Hackney Council (2023) News, Hackney’s free family-friendly Diwali celebrations are open to all. Available at: https://news.hackney.gov.uk/hackneys-free-family-friendly-diwali-celebrations-are-open-to-all/ (Accessed: 03 February 2025).