READING is all set to celebrate Diwali with a host of events and performances on Saturday, October 29.
Kala The Arts, a south Asian dance organisation, will bring DIYA Light It Up to Reading Town Centre, with support from Reading Borough Council and the Business Improvement District.
Diwali is the Festival of Lights, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains around the world to mark new beginnings and show the importance of good triumphing over evil and light over dark.
The celebrations will begin with a musical performance in Market Place from 4pm, with a lantern parade following along Broad Street at 5.30pm.
The parade will feature giant puppets, courtesy of Global Grooves, two large installations from Samesky, and Dhol drummers.
Kala’s professional dancers will be joined for a performance by children from Geoffrey Field Primary School.
Sushmita Pati, Artistic Director of Kala The Arts, said: “Our celebration is open to everyone with schools, communities and professional artists come together for Diwali, which will show the importance of light overcoming darkness.
“This year’s theme is Care – caring for each other, caring for nature and the environment around us and caring for ourselves.”
Alexa Volker, Reading Business Improvement District manager, said: “Reading BID is pleased to be supporting this event on behalf of local businesses to bring visitors into the area.
“Working in partnership with Kala the Arts and the Council, this event is part of creating a vibrant town centre.
“By showcasing these performances in the centre of Reading and celebrating our diverse communities we look to engage more people in what Reading has to offer.”
Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading’s lead councillor for leisure and culture, said: “The Diwali event is another brilliant addition to the exciting schedule of diverse and inclusive events taking place in Reading.
“Working with our partners at Reading BID and with Kala the Arts, I’m glad the Council has been able to support this family-friendly performance and parade, which will be a great opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate.”
Hampshire-based Kala The Arts is a leading dance organisation, specialising in the Odissi South Asian dance form.
It was founded by international Odissi artist and choreographer, Sushmita Pati, in 1999, who now acts as artistic director.
DIYA Light It Up takes place in Market Place from 4pm on Saturday, October 29.
Those wishing to take part in the parade can contact Kala The Arts via: Kalathearts@gmail.com
