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Festival organisers have revealed the route of this year’s Diwali lantern parade, which will light up Woking Town Centre with bursts of colour and sound.
On Thursday 31 October at 6pm, lantern bearers will line up in Gloucester Square (outside the Civic Offices), behind the MAUK Chenda Melam drummers. They will follow the beat of the drums into Jubilee Square, through the shopping centres and along Commercial Way. The procession will then head along Church Street East towards the H.G. Wells Conference and Events Centre, where the Diwali inspired celebrations will continue at a free to attend after party.
Meaning the Festival of Lights, Diwali is recognised by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the globe. It is a celebration of new beginnings, good versus evil and the triumph of light over dark.
Cllr Colin Kemp, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Cultural and Community Development, said: “Whatever your faith or religious beliefs, Woking’s Diwali celebrations can be enjoyed by everyone. There aren’t many events like this locally so everyone should experience it at least once, either as a spectator or as part of the parade. You can expect colour, decorative lanterns, live music, dancing but above all, a warm and hopeful feeling of good things to come.”
The Diwali inspired celebrations will continue at H.G. Wells with Indian music, performances from local community groups and a mouth-watering selection of traditional foods to buy. Doors open at 7.30pm and revellers are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Chairman of Woking Malayalee Association, Varghese John, said: "Woking Malayalee Association has been a part of the town's Diwali celebrations for the past eight years, being one of the central pillars in contributing and organising it. Our members will be joining in the colourful festivities taking place such as the lantern parade as well as the cultural performances - featuring both Indian traditional dancing and Bollywood dancing. One of our members will also be playing the violin to showcase the beauty of Indian music.
"Woking Malayalee Association hopes that the Diwali festival will be a big hit this year and thanks Woking Borough Council as well as all the other unique associations, for bringing this event to life."
This year’s celebrations are organised by Woking Borough Council in partnership with The Art of Living, Surrey Hindu Cultural Association, Sayapatri Nepali Cultural Group, Surrey Art Academy, Surrey Area Teluga Association, Woking Malayalee Association and The Lightbox.
For more information about the parade and to see photos from previous celebrations, please visit www.celebratewoking.info