The Willetton-based Indian Society of WA is leading the charge during this year’s Diwali celebrations at HBF Arena in Joondalup on October 15.
Diwali, or the festival of lights, is the biggest celebration on the Hindu calendar and this year’s event will see the society partner up with more than 30 multicultural associations.
Indian Society spokesman Nitin Vashisht said the festival held a similar significance to Hindus as Christmas does to Christians.
“The festival of lights is symbolic of coming out of darkness to light, coming out of ignorance to knowledge and also the victory of good over evil,” he said.
“Diwalia is the biggest and most important for Hindus, it’s traditionally celebrated with lights, with light lamps, with fire works and obviously people will dress up as well.
“The idea is to mark in a big way the victory of good over evil.”
More than 6000 people attended last year’s event but this year’s was set to be even bigger.
There will be Indian food stalls, cultural performances, markets, rides, handicrafts and fireworks.
Mr Vashisht said the event was open to the wider community.
The way we tend to do it is there is something in there for everyone, including the wider Australian community,” he said.
“We want everyone to understand the message and celebrate with us.”
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Mike Nahan said Diwali celebrations are joyful, bright and colourful family celebrations that welcome the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
“We are all West Australians with a rich and diverse heritage,” he said.
“Diwali festival is another opportunity to embrace our fantastic cultural, religious and linguistic diversity.
“I’d like to wish WA’s Indian communities a very happy Diwali.”
The festival takes place at HBF Arena, Joondalup on October 15 from 12pm to 9.30pm.
