Library bringing Diwali festival to life
Hot on the heels of the Sikh parade and this weekend’s International festival, Te Puke Library will be celebrating Diwali next week.
Diwali is one of Indians’ most important annual festivals and celebrations at the library will run from November 8 to 10 as staff work with the town’s Indian community to bring the festival to life.
As well as a Diwali display, on November 8 from 10.30am11.30am, the colouring club will be working on Rangoli patterns which are used by Hindus at Diwali to guide Goddess Lakshmi into their homes.
These naturally-themed patterns are created on the floor near the front door and are made from materials such as uncooked rice grains, sand and chalk.
On November 10 between 10am and 11am, Indian women will present a dancing display in the library.
The initiative is part of the Welcoming Communities programme being piloted in the Western Bay of Plenty to encourage local residents to welcome newcomers and learn about the diverse cultures that settle in their communities.
Welcoming Communities coordinator Haidee Kalirai says highlighting ethnic events of significance is a great way to increase understanding of the different cultures and their values.
“We encourage residents to come along and learn about this significant Indian celebration, which is of importance to a large Indian community in Te Puke,” says Haidee.
In India the Diwali festival is celebrated every November and honours the victory of good over evil and of brightness over darkness.
Diwali is a time for introspection and to dispel the darkness of ignorance.
It is a five-day festival of lights celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world.
The festival, which coincides with the Hindu New Year, celebrates new beginnings and during the celebration, temples, homes, shops and office buildings are brightly illuminated.