Mount Helen to light up for Diwali

BALLARAT Indian Association’s members are inviting people to help mark the festival of lights.

Their annual Diwali event will be held at Federation University’s Founders Theatre in Mount Helen on Saturday 28 October from 4.30pm.

Ballarat Indian Association publicity officer Neil Dcouto said the celebration is part of the group’s aim to run initiatives that engage the broader community.

“The festival of lights is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in India and around the world,” he said.

“It’s actually a Hindu festival, but in India it is celebrated across all religions, and the concept is that it is a celebration of light over darkness, and good over evil.

“We light lamps, we burst firecrackers and we have a lot of fairy lights on display.”

Mr Dcouto said Ballarat Indian Association has been running a Diwali event for many years and it attracted 1000 attendees in 2022, nearly overflowing the theatre.

He said people of all ages and cultural backgrounds are welcome to attend this month’s iteration, whether they’re familiar with the festival or would like to experience it for the first time.

“We have a welcome ceremony, a range of singing and dancing performances on stage, fashion shows, and musical performances,” he said.

“Come along with family and friends to get together and enjoy a day dedicated to cultural programs and multi-cuisine food. There will be a lot of food trucks outside.

“It’s a free event, and anyone can come along whether they want to know more about the festival of Diwali, enjoy some food, or just see some cultural performances, with amazing outfits and makeup.”