Franklin Diwali a heartwarming affair

The Franklin Arts Culture and Learning Trust, in conjunction with the Pukekohe Indian Association recently held its Diwali festival at the Franklin he Arts Centre. The aim was to bring to the wider public an appreciation of Diwali, the festival, the history and the colours and joy of this wonderful festival.

The event started with the traditional “lighting of the Divas” (lamps) . This was done by the Franklin representative on the Auckland Super City Council, Des Morrison and a representative of The Franklin Arts Culture and Learning Trust, Vanessa Graham.

This was followed dances item by girls of the Indian community, Meera, Krishna and Tejal. There were Rangoli displays, hand painting (Henna), Sari wearing demonstrations, A week- long display in the library and Art complex on Indian culture and festivals.

All this was followed by traditional Indian folk dances where the audience were invited, and indeed did participate. No Indian event is complete without food, and whilst there is a rule that the only food allowed in the complex should be from the café within the complex.

The management of the café were quite happy on this auspicious occasion to allow Indian non-vegetarian food to be sold for this day. The staff of the café even got involved by wearing saris for this occasion.

This Diwali was unlike the very large events that are held in major cities. The objective of this event was to aim for intimacy where the wider public could not only understand the Diwali festival but also take part in it.