Diwali/Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights marks the triumph of light over darkness, or goodness over evil, and is celebrated by the Hindu and Tamil community. Diwali signifies the triumph of righteousness over evil, the return of Lord Ram, Mother Sita and Lakshman from 14 years of exile beautifully depicted in the Ramayan and going back to time immemorial.
The Shree Pretoria Hindu Seva Samaj in collaboration with the Pretoria Navyug Mandal hosted an extraordinary Diwali Festival this past weekend at the Laudium Sports Stadium. The dynamic committee comprises members (all volunteers) who are of varying age groups, passionate about spreading the cultural and spiritual awareness of Diwali through education, awareness, participation, and fun. The event marked the largest Diwali event of its kind, which brought together, diplomats, community leaders and representatives such as the MMC Peggy De Bruin, The High Commissioner of India Prabhat Kumar and Ward Cllr Naeem Patel.
The festival also featured a wide range of activities such as Kids entertainment, soccer events, and volleyball. Local entrepreneurs as well as small businesses had received immense support from the community as diverse stalls which included food, clothing, arts and crafts adding more to the Diwali atmosphere was presented.
No Diwali festival is complete without entertainment. The festival of lights celebration included performances showcasing various dance forms and music by approximately 15 performing artists within Gauteng, MCed by the Jungle Boy himself Avin Moorley.
The festival concluded with the skies of Laudium being lit up with a spectacular fireworks display.
Laudium Today would like to wish all celebrating Diwali peace and joy, both here and across the world!
The organising committee and volunteers
Learners and Teachers of the Balmandhir School
Young dancers from Jeena Dance Productions kept the crowds entertained
Ward 61 Councillor Naeem Patel
High Commissioner of India Prabhat Kumar
MMC for Community Safety and Social Development Peggy De Bruin graced the event last Saturday. The Mayor of Tshwane Cilliers Brink who was expected to attend is believed to have pulled out at the last minute.
Jungle Boy Avin Moorley
Kala Kruti Dance Academy
