Chester welcomes the festival of Diwali

Diwali, the Hindu festival of light returns to Chester on Saturday 28 October 2023.

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

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sheila Little will officially start the celebrations.

The Lord Mayor said:

“This is a wonderful festival of light not to be missed. The centre of Chester welcomes the dancers and musicians to celebrate Diwali.  Please come along to enjoy the spectacle and join the dancers when they invite the audience to dance along.”

Sarika Kaushik, Chairperson of Sanjhi Indian Association said:

“Diwali is an international festival celebrated across the world. We are delighted to share these celebrations in Chester. This year we will be fundraising for Mental Health UK, also supported by our sponsor Bank of America.

“I’d like to thank our sponsors Cheshire West and Chester Council, Bank of America plus the additional support we have from the Sanjhi volunteers, Sai Mayur dance, Gejje Dance, Lalita's Namastey India dance, Art by Avanii, Saffron Spice Cheadle, CHAWREC. Origins Group Ltd and DJ Fusion. Our Diwali celebration wouldn’t be possible without their contribution.”

Iwona Szmidt, Chester Site Lead, Bank of America, said:

“Together with our partners at the Sanjhi Indian Association, we are proud to support the Chester Diwali festival once again. Bank of America is committed to supporting our local communities and we greatly look forward to being a part of this important celebration."

Festival of Diwali:

Parade starts: 12noon Northgate Street, dances: 12.30 Eastgate Street

Programme:

• The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sheila Little declares the Diwali celebrations open.
• Dance - Children under 11 years by Suchitra Sharma and Group/Gejje dance
• Semi Classical dance - Sai Mayur dance school, Chester
• Bollywood dance medley- Sanjhi Ladies group
• Dance by Bank of America Group
• Bollywood dance medley- Lalita’s Namastey India Dance school, Northwich
• Bollywood dance medley - Manasa’s Gejje dance, Chester
• Workshops 2.30pm to 4pm, Unity Centre

After the parade and celebrations in Eastgate Street, the festival continues at the Chester Chester Unity Centre, Cuppin street where public workshops will be held between 2.30pm and 4pm. These include - Henna hand painting, face painting, Diya making, Diwali art, Indian food stall and Indian craft stalls.