The Leeds Connect community, uniting people of Indian heritage living in Holbeck Urban Village and the South Bank, hosted a grand Diwali celebration on Saturday (26 October 2024) drawing a crowd of around 275 people in a joyful display of tradition and unity.
Organised by the dedicated team of Suhas Pawar, Krupashankar B Manohar S, Subhasis Dutta , Pankaj J, Anil S, and Gaurav L, the event highlighted the vibrant diversity that makes Leeds an inclusive and welcoming city.
The evening began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Leeds Central & Headingley MP Alex Sobel and Councillor Helen Hayden joined the organising committee in lighting the ceremonial lamp, lending a special significance to the event.
Alex Sobel praised Leeds as an international city enriched by its diverse community and appreciated the Leeds Connect team’s vision of establishing an International Community Centre. He highlighted how the center could foster cultural integration, blending smaller nations’ traditions with those of larger ones, such as India, alongside the unique heritage of Yorkshire. Sobel noted that multicultural events like Diwali help to foster a peaceful and inclusive atmosphere within the city.
Councillor Helen Hayden, lighting the Diwali lamp for the first time, expressed her honor and extended warm Diwali wishes to the community.
Suhas Pawar, a lead organiser, spoke on the symbolic act of lighting the lamp, explaining,
“This act represents the victory of light over darkness, hope over despair, and good over evil. It reminds us that, no matter the challenges we face, the light within each of us has the power to shine through and bring positivity to the world.”
He emphasised that the celebration reflects the vibrant, diverse community that has come together to share traditions and celebrate unity.
The evening unfolded with lively performances, including classical Indian dance and contemporary music, capturing the joy and spirit of Diwali. Local artists captivated the audience, earning enthusiastic applause for their performances. ITV was present to document the celebration, allowing viewers across the region to experience the festivities, while Jazz Art and Digital Studio, the official videographer, ensured that memories of the night were preserved.
Guests were treated to authentic Indian delicacies, courtesy of sponsor Paranjpe Foods from Pune, who returned this year to bring a taste of India to Leeds. The celebration provided a full sensory experience, with Indian three course dinner, Masala Pan from Delhiwala food, flavors, sounds, and colors that transported attendees into the heart of Diwali
Guests also enjoyed authentic Indian delicacies, courtesy of Paranjpe Foods from Pune, an official sponsor. The taste, sounds, and colors of the evening immersed attendees in the heart of Diwali, creating a memorable experience.
The celebration concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display that lit up the night sky, symbolizing Diwali’s message of light triumphing over darkness. As fireworks burst overhead, attendees reflected on the joy, unity, and community spirit shared throughout the night.
The Leeds Connect Diwali celebration was a powerful reminder of the strength found in diversity and the beauty of shared traditions, leaving attendees with a sense of togetherness and gratitude as they look forward to building an even stronger community in the years to come.
This post is based on a press release issued by Leeds Connect
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