The Leeds Connect Community illuminated Leeds with a dazzling Diwali 2025 celebration on Sunday (12 October 2025) at Aria Suites, bringing together over 300 guests from across the region to celebrate the Festival of Lights in the true spirit of inclusivity, cultural pride, and togetherness.
Leeds Connect is a community-led initiative based in South Leeds City Centre, dedicated to fostering unity and connection through cultural events, networking opportunities, and community projects. With a mission to promote inclusivity and unity in diversity, Leeds Connect continues to bring people together, celebrating the rich multicultural fabric of Leeds and has plans to host some more programs in the near future.
Celebrated one week ahead of Diwali, the event beautifully set the festive tone across Leeds and West Yorkshire. With vibrant performances, heartfelt speeches, delicious food, and spectacular fireworks, Leeds Connect Diwali 2025 showcased the strength of community bonds and the beauty of unity in diversity.
This year’s celebration was graced by Chief Guest Fatima Khan-Shah, West Yorkshire Inclusivity Champion, representing West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin, who was accompanying Prime Minister Keir Starmer on his official visit to India.
In her keynote address, Fatima Khan-Shah praised the Leeds Connect initiative, saying:
“Leeds Connect is a shining example of how inclusivity can be lived, not just spoken about. The joy, participation, and representation here tonight truly show how diversity strengthens the heart of our communities across West Yorkshire.”
Mayor Tracy Brabin and Councillor Helen Hayden conveyed their best wishes to the Leeds Connect team, commending their continued efforts in promoting harmony and multicultural unity across Leeds.
The event commenced with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolising peace, hope, and the triumph of light over darkness. Hosted gracefully by Kosika Firke and Garima, the evening featured a lively mix of dance, music, and cultural performances by talented local artists, capturing the spirit of Diwali through colour, rhythm, and community participation.
Guests enjoyed a Delicious Diwali Dinner, accompanied by snacks from Delhiwala, Akshar Supermarket, and Uyare, followed by traditional Indian paan by Indian Kirana to complete the festive feast. The night concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display, lighting up the Leeds skyline as guests danced to the joyful beats of Diwali.
The Diwali Bumper Draw was another highlight, with the £500 first prize sponsored by Zeba Interiors, adding excitement and cheer to the evening’s festivities.
Abu Bakar, the Lead Sponsor for the event, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Leeds Connect team, applauding their work in fostering community inclusivity and celebration year after year.
Behind the scenes, Secretary Manohar S and Treasurer Krupa S were instrumental in the meticulous preparation and smooth execution of the event. Their combined efforts ensured every detail was in place — from logistics to coordination — making the large-scale celebration a seamless experience for all.
The event received extensive media coverage from ITV, Rangoli Radio and Indian Press, each capturing the essence of Leeds Connect’s mission of “Bringing People Together.” Every memorable moment was beautifully documented by Adi Photos, who captured the warmth, joy, and colour of the evening.
Speaking at the close of the event, Suhas Pawar, Founder of Leeds Connect, said:
“Each year, Diwali reminds us that light triumphs over darkness — and what better way to celebrate that than by coming together as one community? Events of this scale are not without their challenges, especially in funding and coordination, but our dedicated volunteers and community sponsors always step up with generosity and spirit. Leeds Connect Diwali is not just a festival — it’s a celebration of belonging, friendship, and the shared values that unite us all.”
This post is based on a press release issued by Leeds Connect
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