Sydney lights up for Deepavali
11 October 2009
Parramatta Stadium will be spectacularly illuminated this weekend for the festival of Deepavali, the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, said today.
Deepavali is a major celebration for the Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities across the world.
‘It is also known as the Festival of Lights, after the diyas or clay oil-filled lamps, which are lit in celebration and signify the victory of good over evil within an individual,’ Mr Ferguson said.
‘Every year, Deepavali celebrations continue to grow as the festival is increasingly embraced by the wider community.’
More than 30 000 people are expected to attend Deepavali this year, which will include stallholders showcasing handicrafts, food and jewellery.
According to 2006 census data, nearly 100 000 people of Indian heritage were living in NSW, with about half of that number living in Western Sydney.
‘I encourage people in Sydney to come along and join in the celebrations,’ Mr Ferguson said.
The Hindu Council of Australia has been successfully celebrating Deepavali on a large scale for the past nine years. The council is a national body representing more than 150 000 Australian Hindus.
Celebrations begin from 11 am on Sunday. The evening will conclude with cultural performances and fireworks.
The exterior of the NSW Parliament House will also be illuminated from October 17-30.
‘I wish all those celebrating today Shubh Deepavali or Happy Deepavali,’ the Parliamentary Secretary said.
Media contact: Carla Wilshire 0432 755 935
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2009/lf09048.htm
Last update: 12 October 2009 at 12:37 AEST