Romford celebrates Diwali the Festival of Lights!

On Sunday 27 October, with the most beautiful weather, Romford celebrated Diwali in Romford Market Place. The event was put on by Romford BID and Havering Changing in partnership with Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association (HASWA) and Clarion Futures.

 The day included a host of incredible entertainment, with live sets from DJ Ravi, live music, and captivating Bhangra and Bollywood dance performances. As well as this, visitors enjoyed a vibrant market, with a delicious range of street food on offer as well as traditional Indian dress, jewellery, bags and lots more.

 Bradford-based artist, Zareena Bano delivered an arts and crafts workshop inspired by truck art, a form of regional decoration with floral patterns and calligraphy for all ages. Visitors also enjoyed free Henna tattoos and face painting by talented artists.

 Diwali is known as the ‘festival of lights,’ it is an occasion which symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness. It is an event which celebrates new beginnings and promotes fellowship between people. Diwali is celebrated by more than a billion people across faiths. 

 This free event was enjoyed and attended by many, with many praising the organisers for a fantastic day. Some public comments included:

 “It was beautiful, I really enjoyed it, my daughter is in a wheelchair, and they involved in the activities, dancing. You’ve done a great job, and I hope you’re going to do more.”

 “Today is the big Diwali celebration in Trafalgar Square, so I didn’t think people might come. The fact they did, and it’s been so busy, on the same day, speaks volumes really. It’s been lovely.”

 “Colourful, fun, friendly. It’s good to see a load of cultures mix together.”

 “I was going to go to Trafalgar Square today. Thought I’d check-in here and now I’m going to stay here.”

 “There’s a lot to do at the event, and the performances were really good. It’s a wholesome family event. Really nice to have family and kids engaged and enjoying it.”

 “Togetherness, harmony and joy. This event is amazing! Showcasing Asian culture and life and sharing with the community. I especially enjoyed the wider showcase this year. Can’t wait for next year. Thank you so much for organising this.”

 Julie Frost Romford BID Director said, “A big part of the BID’s business plan for this term is in broadening the range and variety of events which take place in our town centre. Whether cultural or culinary, musical or artistic, the BID is keen to make the Market Place a focal point for celebration and appreciation of the many wonderous expressions of community which exist in our town.”

 James Jackson said, “Havering Changing is very proud of everyone who came together for this celebration and would like to thank our partners, team, community and performers: DJ Ravi, Tej Attalia dhol drummer, Veena Jain and her dance troupe, HASWA Kids and Ladies, Mayukhjit Chakraborty Indian bansuri player, Shin DCS, Segatastic Mauritian dancers and visual artist Zareena Bano.”

 Manjit Singh, Project Development Officer HASWA said “HASWA wishes everyone a Happy Diwali! Let’s fill our hearts with warmth & togetherness, celebrating the festival of lights in unity and love.”

Well done to the lovely Manjit from HASWA who is a real community champion and supports so many across Havering.

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