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Diwali lights up with food and culture

Emily AceSouth Western Times
VideoGuests - including Forrest MHR Nola Marino and Bunbury MLA Don Punch - join the fun on stage at the South West Indian Group's Diwali festival of lights.

The South West Italian Club was packed to the brim as 550 guests joined together to celebrate Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, with the South West Indian Group.

Diwali is a global festival celebrated by millions of people worldwide irrespective their religions, ages, ethnicity and gender.

The festivities began with a Noongar welcome to country and the lighting of the Kuthuvilakku lamp, which signified light’s triumph over darkness, to send a message of peace and positivity.

A fashion parade kickstarted the entertainment portion of the evening, which included Bollywood, traditional and Bhangra dance performances.

The Consul General of India and heads of Indian associations from Perth were also in attendance.

Fire dancers and stilt walkers also featured, while a henna tattoo artist stand was a hit with many of the children.

Group president Parthasarathy Ramesh was pleased by the big turnout for the seventh annual celebration, which featured guests of many different nationalities.

“There were multiple stalls and tasty Indian buffet food for everyone,” he said.

“Entertainment was once again of a high standards which is the trademark of South West Indian Group events.”

Dr Ramesh thanked sponsors who made the event possible, as well as ticket outlets and the community for their continued support.

He particularly thanked the school children who volunteered their time.

The group is set to host more events in 2019, including Bhangra and Bollywood lessons for all ages.

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