The 3 Best Diwali Celebrations of the Year!
#1 – Diwali with the Bramha Kumaris
At their teaching centre in Willesden Green, the Bramha Kumaris celebrated Diwali in a simplistic yet holistic manner, with people from different backgrounds joining in.
Why we loved it
It was simple yet beautiful with the involvement of the entire community and to top it all an enlightening talk by Sister Jayanti. With different faiths and community groups all coming under one roof this was an inclusive event showcasing the true spirit of Diwali – togetherness and unity.
Seen at the event
Councillor Muhammed Butt, Nitin Palan from Golden Tours, Amit Agrawal from Art of Living, reprentatives from BAPS Swaminarayan, Zee TV and ministers from the Indian High Commission to the UK.
Highlights
There was a short presentation on Diwali after which everyone came together to light candles followed by a simple vegetarian dinner cooked specially by the Sisters.
Our thoughts
It was heartfelt with no rhetoric
#2 – Armed Forces Hindu Network Diwali Celebration
Aboard the prestigious HMS President, the Armed Forces Hindu Network celebrated Diwali with valour and prestige.
Why we loved it
The Armed Forces Hindu Network Diwali celebrations was a sign of unity and integration. Done with grace on the HMS President the three forces of the country – Army, Navy and Air force came together to celebrate Diwali and showcase the diversity within the armed forces.
To add to the celebrations was the traditional greeting by Royal Navy, Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Manish Tayal, Chair of the Armed Forces Hindu Network who greeted: “Namaste – The divine in me bows down to the divine in you; Diwali is the universal message and upholding the key tenet of Hinduism – Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the whole world is my family.”
Highlights
An insightful presentation on Diwali and the role of Indian soldiers since World War I with allied forces and their contribution and growth through history. A powerful dance drama performed by Arunima’s Dance Group inspired by the epic saga – Ramayana.
Our thoughts
The event was exactly what the core values of the armed forces stand for courage, commitment, discipline, respect, integrity and loyalty.
#3 – Bank of Baroda Diwali Party
With the views of the Tower Bridge, Bank of Baroda celebrated their annual Diwali celebration at the luxurious Grange City Hotel with action packed entertainment, loads of food and the coming together of UK’s banking fraternity.
Why we loved it
It was a glittering event which saw not only Indian banks but members of UK’s entire banking fraternity come together to celebrate Diwali. The event was a perfect pot boiler with soothing music by a Bombay Harpist, an Indian classical performance by Akademi, three Bollywood dance acts and musical jugalbandi by Crew 515 and not to forget some delicious food.
Highlights
Guests got to take home a photographic memorabilia with a choice of three backgrounds – Diwali, Taj Mahal and Bollywood. Crew 515’s musical jugalbandi got everyone’s foot tapping and the Angel Dancers set the stage on fire and got the guests on the dance floor making it a night to remember.
Seen at the event
Flying down specially from Mumbai for the event was the Chief General Manager of the International Operations of Bank of Baroda Mr Rajiv Abhyankar. Also present was Chief Executive of the banks European Operations Mr Dhimant Trivedi.
Our thoughts
The Bank of Baroda Diwali event has always been one of the most talked about parties of the banking fraternity, and this one was no different. From music and dance to sumptuous food, it was an extravagant evening.
Here and Now 365 has always prided itself for promoting multiculturalism and celebrating the ethnic diversity of the UK.
