A CELEBRATION of Diwali will light up Rugby town centre on Sunday (October 12).
A free town centre community event will mark the occasion – also known as the Festival of Lights – for the third time, following its debut in 2023 and a successful follow-up last year.
Organised by Rugby Indian Communities with support from Rugby First and Rugby Borough Council, the event will include music, dance, food, stalls, festive lighting, family entertainment and a lantern parade.
Diwali is the five-day Festival of Lights, celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world. It symbolises new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, and for some also coincides with harvest and new year celebrations.
The festival always falls sometime between October and November, but the exact date varies each year as the Hindu calendar is based on the moon.
Coun Ish Mistry, one of the organisers of the event and Deputy Leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “Diwali is a very important annual celebration for the Indian community and I am delighted that we are celebrating it in the heart of Rugby town centre again, where everyone will be able to join in the celebrations.
“The dancing, singing, drumming, food, lights and colourful procession will provide a fantastic atmosphere and amazing spectacle in the town centre.
“I would like to say a special thank you to the Indian Communities, Rugby First, Rugby Borough Council and all those taking part for their incredible support and bringing the event to life. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Diwali.”
Rugby First Business Director Linda Lowne said: “Rugby has an incredibly diverse community, and it is great to see everyone come together to celebrate an event like this, as well as shine a light on the town centre.
“I would encourage everyone not only to come along and enjoy the event but also take the opportunity to support local town centre businesses who will be open on the day.”
The event will run from 1pm to 7pm in Market Place, High Street, Sheep Street and the Asda car park in front of the Swan Centre.
Visit www.rugbyfirst.org for more information.
