ਦਿਵਾਲੀ ਦੀਆਂ ਲੱਖ-ਲੱਖ ਵਧਾਈਆਂ | Happy Diwali Whanau!
The word Diwali, also known as Deepavali — which translates to “row of lights” in Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language — embodies a spirit of joy and celebration.
This festival illuminates homes with countless lights and oil lamps called diyas, as a way to honor the beloved Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. These radiant lights are believed to guide Lakshmi into our homes, paving the way for prosperity in the coming year!
Diwali also signifies the victory of good over evil, with various legends enriching its significance. In northern India, for instance, it commemorates the return of the deities Rama and Sita to Ayodhya after their triumph over the malevolent king Ravana.
At our centre, we embraced the magic of Diwali on October 17, 2025, inviting our tamariki and their whanau to join us in this joyous celebration. The evening launched with a delightful surprise dance performance from our talented kaiko, setting a festive tone for everyone present.
We indulged in a delicious feast, featuring an array of multicultural dishes lovingly prepared by each whanau, leaving us all with satisfied appetites. But that wasn’t all! The evening was filled with exciting activities. Our wonderful Mandeep led a henna booth, where our tamariki enjoyed intricate designs—a true treat! We also had a lively photobooth that captured smiles and laughter, creating cherished memories that we could document from this special occasion.
The rhythm of Diwali music filled the air, and many of us joined in on the dance floor, grooving to the festive beats and revelling in the joy of the night. The incredible turnout and enthusiastic participation from everyone showcased the strong bonds we've formed with our whanau. It was heartwarming to see people from diverse cultures and beliefs come together, united in celebration, smiles lighting up their faces.
In moments like these, we realise that we are not just a community; we are a vibrant family celebrating life together!