‘UNITY and joy’ brought Rugby together as thousands turned out in the town centre to celebrate Diwali on Sunday (October 12).
The free open-air community event featured a lantern parade, food, stalls, festive lighting, family entertainment, and music and dance performances on stages in Market Place and outside the Swan Centre.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is 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 event was organised by the Rugby Indian Communities with support from Rugby First and Rugby Borough Council.
Coun Ish Mistry, one of the organisers and Deputy Leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “The event proved to be a vibrant celebration featuring a wide array of food stalls, offering something to suit every palate.
“The entertainment on both stages captivated attendees with outstanding music, colourful costumes and dances representing the diversity of Indian culture from all its regions.
“The event truly highlighted Rugby’s diverse and inclusive community, which lies at the very heart of the town’s identity. The sense of unity and joy was palpable throughout the celebrations.
“The parade around the Town Centre, which saw enthusiastic participation from the community, culminated in the Diwali light switch-on performed by the Mayor, Barbara Brown.
“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the festival.
“Rugby is a special place because of its exceptional people, whose spirit and commitment make such community events possible and memorable.”
Rugby First Business Director Linda Lowne said: “It was fantastic to see so many people from all communities coming into the town centre on Sunday.
“There is no doubt that this increased footfall will have provided a significant and much needed boost to the town centre economy. Please continue to support our local businesses and spend and shop locally whenever possible.
“It was great to see so many local businesses getting involved and I would like to thank them along with our sponsors Stonewall Security, all the volunteers from the Indian Community and Rugby Borough Council for their massive contribution and enthusiasm in contributing to this fantastic event.”
Visit www.therugbytown.co.uk for information on other town centre events, including Halloween.
