Namaste Kingston organised a vibrant Diwali celebration on 4 November, bringing together the local community in a celebration of Indian culture, music, and performances.  

The local community interest organization, Namaste Kingston, aims to promote cultural understandings and integration while engaging in local communities and initiatives. to create a friendly, welcoming space where everyone can come together to celebrate their culture and support local initiatives.  

The event witnessed an overwhelming turnout of over 350 people, showcasing the community's commitment to diversity and unity. 

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated worldwide. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Diwali is marked by lighting oil lamps, exchanging gifts, and enjoying festive feasts. 

This year's festival was held at Southborough High School aimed to promote cultural exchange and foster a sense of togetherness among all attendees, regardless of their background or beliefs. 

The highlight of the celebration was the presence of the Mayor and Consort the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Councillor Diane White and Mr Jonathan White, and Cllr Yogan Yoganathan and his wife Mrs Saro Yaganathan, who graced the occasion with their presence and expressed their support for the celebration of diverse cultures within the community. 

It featured a vibrant marketplace with over 20 stalls, offering a wide array of traditional Indian crafts, clothing, jewellery, and delectable cuisine. 

Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the colourful tapestry of Indian culture, savouring mouth-watering delicacies and exploring the diverse crafts on display. 

To captivate the audience, the festival showcased a mesmerizing line-up of Indian classical music performances, enchanting the crowd with soul-stirring melodies and rhythmic beats. 

The talented local performers, with their captivating acts, added an extra layer of charm to the event, showcasing the incredible talent within the community. 

Namaste Kingston's Diwali celebration served as a platform to reinforce the significance of cultural diversity and inclusivity within society. 

It brought people together, fostering friendships and understanding, while promoting a sense of unity among different cultures and backgrounds. 

The overwhelming response and attendance at this year's Diwali festival truly exemplified the community's enthusiasm and commitment to embracing diversity. 

Namaste Kingston express their heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, performers, stallholders, and volunteers for making this event a resounding success.