Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals in India and for over 1 billion Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists globally, it has a special spiritual and social significance.
Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is being celebrated by communities across India, but also world wide, including in Newcastle and across the UK. The festival of Diwali extends over five days and celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that people light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.
Local events and activities celebrating Diwali
There are a range of great events delivered by GemArts celebrating Diwali this year. Soumik Datta’s Hope Notes at Sage Gateshead on 3rd November. GemArts is collaborating with Dance City to present two incredible performances, the first on 17th November brings leading Odissi dancer Arushi Mudgal; and then, a new show for children and families on 19th November, Spy Monkey, a comedy dance film featuring popular Diwali story characters from the Indian epic, the Ramayana, including interaction with the cast!
Why not get creative and follow GemArts step by step guide with Michelle Wood and create your very own beautiful Diwali concertina fold book, which you can keep, or give to your loved ones as a gift. Watch the demonstration video and download your Diwali printable to get creative and make a Diwali Concertina Fold Book with artist Michelle Wood.
Click here to find out about other celebrations in Durham and Middlesbrough.
More information about Diwali
Click here to find out more about Diwali in history, traditions and customs, meaning and significance, celebrations and regional significance – from the Society for the confluence of festival of India.
Happy Diwali for all those celebrating!