Cohesion Plus working in partnership with the Hindu Cultural Society produced a community celebration for Diwali on Friday 10th November in Gravesend to mark the festival of light and the triumph of good over evil. The event was planned as to include and represent both Sikh and Hindu faith, as each faith celebrates and marks Diwali differently.
The event was attended by over 150 people with special civic guests in attendance including Deputy Lieutenant Dr Bhagawara Vasudaven, Mayor of Gravesham Cllr Gurdip Bungar and Chairman of Kent County Council Cllr Gary Cooke. The civic guests all spoke at the event, wishing those in attendance warm wishes for Diwali.
As part of the celebrations there was a special artistic programme of North and South Indian dance and musical performances, showcasing Bhangra and Bharatanatyam, two distinct and dynamic dance forms highlighting two cultures. There was also a theatrical performance put on by young people around the retelling of the Ram Seeta Saga, a famous story around the origin of Diwali from a Hindu perspective. There was also a full Indian buffet for the guests to enjoy.
Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus commented, “We are so pleased to deliver these special Diwali celebrations with local faith group Hindu Cultural Society. Diwali is an incredibly special time of year and this year presented a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the festival of light with both Sikhism and Hinduism in mind, bringing together the communities in the area regardless of faith and background. We are grateful to everyone who attended and we look forward to delivering a similar programme next year, working with the local communities of Gravesham.”