The highly anticipated annual Diwali on the Square celebrations organised annually by the Diwali in London Committee in collaboration with the Mayor of London returned to Trafalgar Square, featuring an exciting line up of dance, music, activities, and delicious food. This vibrant event aimed to unite Londoners and visitors alike in celebration of the Festival of Lights, taking place on the weekend before Diwali.
Speaking about the event, Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said, “It’s fantastic to be back here in Trafalgar Square for Diwali on the Square, celebrating this wonderful festival of lights with thousands of Londoners and visitors. We’ve been treated to an amazing atmosphere, fantastic performances and of course, plenty of delicious food. I’m proud that our great city hosts one of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India. This is year of all years, please celebrate Diwali but celebrate the importance of what you bring to this great city. Celebrate the contribution you make, make sure the rest of the country, the rest of the world, where there may be division, understands the importance of Diwali. Understand the importance of diversity. Celebrate the joy of London.
“I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Hindu, Sikh and Jain Londoners for the huge contribution they’ve made and continue to make to the greatest city in the world. From my family to yours, Happy Diwali,” he added.
The event featured vibrant dance sequences with 200 dazzling performers including Simran Solanki, main stage performance showcasing music and dance from London’s Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities, and family-friendly activities like sari and turban tying, yoga, meditation, puppet shows, and dance workshops.
Attendees enjoyed comedy, cookery demonstrations, henna art, and a bustling market with food stalls offering delicious vegan and vegetarian treats.
CB Patel, Publisher/Editor of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, was also present at the event.
One of the attendees, Anjani Haria said, “Diwali, the auspicious ‘Festival of Lights’, was celebrated with much pomp and vigour at one of London’s iconic Trafalgar Square on the 27th October 2024. The programmes included traditional Indian and Bollywood dance performances, music, and storytelling, alongside a variety of activity zones and interactive workshops focusing on harmony, meditation and Yoga. In addition, there was also a delicious variety of Indian cuisine available for all. The event celebrated the eternal story of the Ramayana, signifying the theme of victory of light over darkness explored not just in Hinduism but also in the Sikh, Jain and Buddhist traditions. The various zones beautifully exhibited the individual’s journey of self-discovery. Over 35,000 people of all ages and religions attended the event led by the Mayor of London and supported by various community leaders from the Indian diaspora. Overall this event was influential for many, specifically for the youth who gained a sense of self and religion, uniting the wider community. A fun-filled day out for the whole family!”
