COMMUNITIES came together in Leamington for the Diwali light switch-on.
Hundreds of people from diverse backgrounds – including members of the Indian community, local businesses, faith groups and dignitaries -attended the Festival of Lights, which saw the switching on of the Happy Diwali light at the top of the Parade.
The festive atmosphere was ignited with a performance of Dhol Tasha music before the lights were switched on by Couns Naveen Tangri, Hema Yellapragada and Raj Kang along with Leamington mayor Coun Alan Boad and the chairman and leader of Warwick District Council, Coun Sidney Syson and Coun Ian Davison.
Coun Naveen Tangri said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come together, to unite as a community and celebrate this joyous festival which acknowledges the triumph of light over darkness.
“The resounding success of the Diwali event has inspired the council to commit to even more organised and vibrant celebrations in the future. As we look ahead, we welcome the community’s valuable insights and ideas to continue strengthening the bonds that make our district such a remarkable place to live.”
And earlier in the evening, district councillors from across the political parties came together at the town hall to experience a special performance of Kuchipudi, a traditional Indian classical dance, by students from the Ishana Dance School.
