Diwali/Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most cherished celebrations in India and among Indian communities worldwide. It represents the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Rooted in ancient Hindu traditions, Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile and his triumph over the demon king Ravana. During the festival, homes are adorned with oil lamps (diyas), vibrant rangoli patterns, and strings of lights, creating a warm and joyful ambiance. Diwali spans five days, each with its own rituals and significance, and brings families together to pray, exchange gifts, enjoy sweets, and light fireworks. This celebration is both a religious and cultural event, symbolizing positivity, prosperity, and togetherness for all who observe it.
Indians in Australia eagerly embrace the spirit of Diwali celebrations. Since 2017, the Blacktown Council in Sydney has shown strong support for this festive occasion by organizing the Diwali Lights competition, where residents are judged based on the Diwali-themed lighting decorations of their homes.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting was one of the judges and was impressed by the entries. “Council’s Diwali Lights Competition is a real spectacle, and I have been impressed by the time and effort that has gone into the displays. The Blacktown City community is proudly multicultural, and we encourage people to express their heritage through traditional celebrations such as Diwali. I have learned a lot by talking to the residents behind the displays and I know the competition has been a conversation-starter between neighbours and helped community connection.”
The Indian Sun collaborated with the Council in the judging process, with Bhushan Salunke touring the suburbs and being amazed by the breathtaking display of lights, which made selecting the winners a truly challenging task.
The final winners were the following:
- First place: Roneel Kumar, Hampton Crescent, Prospect.
- Second place: Jitesh Kumar, Wilcox Street, Marsden Park.
- Third place: Abhishek Bhatnagar, Coobowie Drive, The Ponds
- Phantom Street at Nirimba Fields won the Best Street category.
Ayodhya, in India, set two Guinness World Records this Diwali; One record was of most people (1,121 vedacharyas) performing aarti simultaneously and the other record was the largest display of oil lamps (over 25 lakhs)
Blacktown City Council has undoubtedly set a standard for Diwali celebrations in Australia!
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🌟🪔#Blacktown’s Diwali Lights Competition dazzled #Sydney as residents celebrated the Festival of Lights with vibrant displays.🎆 🎇 Families gathered in festive unity, honouring Diwali’s heritage.🏆 💡 Explore the winners.🎉✨ #TheIndianSun #Diwali2024https://t.co/N70A06zDyu
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) November 11, 2024
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