LONDON mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the story of Diwali is a source of lasting inspiration for all. He added that the festival teaches us that 'good will always prevail over evil'.
“I would like to wish all Londoners and everyone celebrating around the world a very happy Diwali. The story of Diwali is a source of lasting inspiration to us all, teaching us that good will always prevail over evil, knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness," said Khan in his Diwali message.
"I’m proud that London hosts some of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India and it is a privilege for me to be able to mark this wonderful festival of lights with Hindu, Sikh and Jain Londoners who make such an incredible contribution to our capital.
"So as you join with family and friends to celebrate, I want to say thank you for everything you continue to do to help us build a better London for all. From my family to yours, Happy Diwali!"
On Wednesday (8) night the mayor celebrated the festival at Dishoom’s Diwali event at The Steel Yard.
Diwali celebration in Trafalgar Square
The annual Diwali on the Square festivities were held in Trafalgar Square on October 29.
The event started with 200 dancers, followed by performances by artists from the city’s Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities. There were various market stalls and activities, including dance workshops, yoga, meditation, Ramayana puppet shows, Soho Theatre comedy and the glimpse of goddesses stall, to learn more about Hindu deities.
The event also featured the Diwali Queen, a series of dance performances presented by Kalasetu, a collaborative project between Subrang Arts and Kinetika commissioned on behalf of This is Croydon and the mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2023.
Damian Talbot