Celebrations mark Diwali

COLOURFUL . . . the festival of light is celebrated at the Indian Association centre

Communities around Oldham came together to celebrate the Hindu festival of light, Diwali.


Celebrated by thousands of people in Oldham and across Greater Manchester, it is one of the most important religious festivals in the Hindu, Sikh and Jain calendar.

The Indian community of Oldham celebrated the festival at the weekend at the Indian Association community centre and temple, Schofield Street.

More than 500 people attended for prayers for peace and prosperity, a vegetarian meal and fireworks.

The association’s president, Bharat Sisodia, said: “Diwali is the time when we stop for a moment from our busy lives and immerse ourselves in the divine vibrations of the festival.”