Diwali at Founders

Experience India- Diwali 2023 NAATA Indian Community Trust

Diwali 2023 was celebrated on 5 Nov 2023 at Founders Heritage Park showcasing temple rituals, floor art, jewellery, Indian clothes, stalls selling vegetarian food, and kids and adults performing cultural and contemporary dance.

“Diwali is a very important festival celebrated by the majority of Indians. It was a great experience to celebrate Diwali at such a high scale where thousands of people turned up to be part of the celebration. I am confident having these celebrations have given a great confidence and a sense of belonging to the new migrants and other Indians residing in Nelson Tasman.”

“Festivals bring people together and Diwali does the same for Indians in Nelson Tasman. It passes cultural knowledge to young children/future generations. Celebrating festivals also creates awareness and a sense of belonging.”

“Diwali is like Christmas for Indian Community so is the most important festival in India. All major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch celebrate Diwali and bring the community closer. This time Indian community didn't miss the gap being living in the region because Nelson celebrated its Diwali on a grand scale”. - Anjali Puri

Attendance: 3000

Photography - Kat Beyle www.wiphala.co.nz