Chester welcomes the festival of Diwali on Saturday 23rd October

Diwali, the Hindu festival of light returns to Chester on Saturday 23rd October.

The festival is organised by the Sanjhi Indian Association and starts at 12 noon with a colourful parade from the Town Hall Square to Eastgate Street for a display of traditional Indian dancing at 12.30pm.

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “Like many of our favourite events, we missed the festival of light celebrations due to Covid-19 last year. This makes the return even more special as the city centre welcomes the Diwali musicians and dancers. Please come along and enjoy the fun.”

Sarika Kaushik, Chairperson of Sanjhi Indian Association said: “It’s been a long wait to bring our Diwali celebrations back to Chester. Diwali is an international festival celebrated across the world. Our dancers can always rely on the warm welcome after their hard work of rehearsals.

“I’d like to thank our main sponsors Essar Oil plus the additional support we have from Cheshire West and Chester Council, the Sanjhi volunteers, Sai Mayur dance, Bolly Muvs, Lalita's Namastey India dance, CHAWREC and RK Sweets. Our Diwali celebration wouldn’t be possible without their contribution.”

The Diwali organisers are taking precautions to keep the event as Covid-19 safe as possible, which has included removing public workshops this year. Like all events the programme may have to change or cancel at short notice following public health advice.