Diwali fest lights up UVic stage
Explore the diverse mythology, culture and dance of India and Nepal at the annual Diwali Cultural Show on Saturday evening.
Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated by Hindus and Sikhs around the world each fall to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
For 20 years, the Victoria Hindu Parishad and Cultural Center has organized cultural shows to tell the story of Diwali through song and dance. The event grew to be so popular that it’s now held at the Farquhar Auditorium at the University of Victoria.
This year’s show packs in a number of unique dances by local groups, including the Raas Garba from Gujarat, which uses decorative sticks, colourful Nepali dance and the fun favourite Bhangra from Punjab.
Organizer Suresh Basrur said the classical dance styles, such as Mohini Attam from Kerala, convey a mythological story and are accompanied by musicians.
“[Diwali] celebrates the joyful return from exile of Lord Rama, who defeated demon king Ravana while in exile,” said Basrur, noting Rama returns to home to a welcome path lit with lamps. He said Diwali also celebrates the day Krishna overcame the powerful overlord Narakasura.
“These mythological stories are acted out in the form of musical plays all around India, with brilliant costumes and great drama.”
And, of course, there will be Bollywood dancing, as well as samosas and chai for those interested in trying Indian snacks.
The show is at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are $20 (free for kids two and under on laps). For more information, go to tickets.uvic.ca