Diwali Festival of Lights 2011
Diwali Festival of Lights is India’s best-loved festival, and is an ancient Hindu festival that symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of life. It is a time for celebration in India and by Indian diasporas abroad, with families lighting lamps, candles and fireworks to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil.
Diwali in Wellington
Thanks to everyone who attended Diwali Festival of Lights in Wellington at the weekend. Many beautiful outfits, lots of friendly faces, as well as great food and performances.
Diwali in Auckland
Thanks to everyone who attended Auckland’s 10th Diwali Festival of Lights, which took place on 8 and 9 October 2011.
2011 performers from India
Asia:NZ brought out some amazing performers over from India for the Auckland and Wellington Diwali festivals:
- Sand artist Ranjan Kumar Ganguly from Orissa
- Manipuri dancers from the JN Manipur Dance Academy
- the Chennai-based Indian Puppeteers.
Sand sculptor Ranjan Kumar Ganguly
As a child, Ranjan would use his imagination to carve out the images of Indian gods and goddesses on the beach of the coastal town of Jagannath Puri, Orissa.
By the time he was an adult, Ranjan was an expert at sand sculpture, and began to exhibit his skills around India. He has since exhibited internationally.
Manipuri dancers
Manipuri dance is one of the six classical dance styles that India is famous for. The dance, which is devotional in nature, is known for its rounded movements, delicacy and grace.
The dancers’ colourful costumes feature mirrors and zari embroidery intricately woven into beautiful designs. Instruments, including cymbals and drums, are a key element of the dance.
The Indian Puppeteers
Chennai-based puppet company The Indian Puppeteers brought to life some of the best-loved stories known by all Indian children at the 2011 Diwali Festival.
The group's puppets are made from parchment leather, and are up to two metres high.
Leading up to this year's Diwali Festival keep up to date
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Related pages
Images:
Dancers from the JN Manipuri Dance Academy
The sand sculpture Ranjan Kumar Ganguly created for the Auckland festival.
