Diwali Festival of Lights

India’s best-loved festival, Diwali, is an ancient Hindu festival that symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of life. It is a time for celebration in India and by Indian diasporas abroad, with families lighting lamps, candles and fireworks to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil.

This year promises an even bigger celebration as festivities coincide with the Rugby World Cup 2011. Diwali Festival of Lights will take place in Auckland on 8 and 9 October and in Wellington on 15 and 16 October.

2011 performers from India:
Sand sculptor Ranjan Kumar Ganguly
As a child, Ranjan would use his imagination to carve out the images of Indian gods and goddesses on the beach of the coastal town of Jagannath Puri, Orissa.

By the time he was an adult, Ranjan was an expert at sand sculpture, and began to exhibit his skills around India. He has since exhibited internationally.

Manipuri dancers
Manipuri dance is one of the six classical dance styles that India is famous for. The dance, which is devotional in nature, is known for its rounded movements, delicacy and grace.

The dancers’ colourful costumes feature mirrors and zari embroidery intricately woven into beautiful designs. Instruments, including cymbals and drums, are a key element of the dance.

The Indian Puppeteers
Chennai-based puppet company The Indian Puppeteers will bring to life some of the best-loved stories known by all Indian children.

Chief among them is the tale of the brave monkey king, Hanuman, who leads an army of monkeys to rescue Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, from the clutches of the 10-headed demon king Lord Ravana.

The puppets are made from parchment leather, and are up to two metres high.

Diwali in Auckland
Auckland’s 10th Diwali Festival of Lights will take place on 8 and 9 October 2011 at Aotea Square and Aotea Centre - The Edge. Highlights of the family-friendly festival include delicious food stalls, traditional and contemporary dance and music, the hotly contested Bollywood dance competition and a grand finale fireworks display on Sunday evening.

For further information please contact Steven Si, telephone 09 301 7400 or by email on steven.si@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz