Bright lights, vibrant colours and lots of food were shared last week as Launceston's Indian community marked the holiday of Diwali.
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Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a traditional festival observed all over the world. The festival ran for the whole week, with Thursday being the most significant day.
The event is marked by millions all across the globe, with Launceston Indian community member Raj Eri saying it was a celebration of many culture and religions.
"It's not only Hindus celebrating today but also Sikhs, Jains and some sections of Buddhists also celebrate Diwali so its a global event."
Throughout Launceston, many families gathered for festivities and decorated their homes with candles, lights and brightly coloured flowers.
The meaning of Diwali is the celebration of light over dark and the victory of good over evil.
The most significant day of Diwali was Lakshmi Pooja, which was held on Thursday. Pooja is the traditional prayer and showing of respect to the gods, and features traditional candles, flowers, incense and offerings.
Lakshmi Pooja recognises the day of worship for the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, with a pooja held in each household.
Mr Eri said Diwali was a day that recognised good defeating evil.
"Diwali goes back to the ancient times and the belief that Lord Rama, who represents truth, comes back to his kingdom after defeating evil," Mr Eri said.
"The people of his kingdom welcomed him with firecrackers and lights and that's represented still today with traditional lights, candles and sparklers."
Mr Eri said that there is a growing Indian community in Launceston that he has seen expand since he first arrived 11 years ago.
"When we first got here you could count the number of Indians, but now we estimate that their are around 500 families in the area, so its a big cultural group that love to get together and celebrate holidays like this.
"In India it is an enormous event and so for us to have a community here in Launceston that can celebrate together is really beautiful and we invite everyone no matter what race, class or religion to join with us.
"Generations ago in India when there was no electricity you can imagine how beautiful and stunning all the lights would be. Obviously with lots of people and dense areas of houses in India entire cities would be lit up during the week and it looks stunning."
Later this month, members of Launceston's Indian community will hold a larger Diwali event, as \they have done for the past 20 years.
"We didn't hold the event last year due to COVID restrictions, but we are happy we can bring back the event this year," Mr Eri said.
"The event will be great and will feature dancing, singing and a three course meal of Indian cuisine."
"Everyone is welcome no matter what background or religion, we are very inclusive and want everyone to feel welcome and learn more about our culture and traditions.
"We will have dance and song performances, lots of traditional food and many will be wearing there best Indian garments, so it will be a very colourful night."
The Diwali 2021 event will be held at the Max Fry Memorial Hall on November 27.
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