Time to celebrate

ALL smiles . . . for Diwali at the Indian Association in Oldham

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COLOURFUL displays of food and fireworks celebrated Diwali in Oldham last night.

The Indian Association Oldham marked the festival of lights at the Hindu temple on Schofield Street.

Hindus from all over Oldham and around the Greater Manchester area attended to observe prayers for peace, happiness and prosperity for the people of Oldham, sing and give offerings of 108 varieties of food dishes to gods and goddesses.

The feast was ended with a firework display.

Volunteers worked for two weeks to create displays in the centre, which had the theme of harvest.

Indian Association Oldham Trustee Bharat Sisodia said: "This year children from the community took on a grand task of creating a scene of celebration of a harvest festival in an Indian village expressing our gratitude to mother earth for fulfilling all our needs.

"On display was a large colourful variety of lentils and grains decorated in beautiful colourful designs.

"There was also plenty of handy craft items on display bringing out the traditional style of celebrations.

"Diwali festival is all about sharing love and light with everyone.

"Light is a symbol of knowledge, happiness and all the good human values. It's a celebration of victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance."

• Check out our picture sales page for more Diwali pictures.