The Ridge Meadows South Asian Cultural Society held its biggest Diwali celebration to date at the Maple Ridge Public Library on Saturday, with hundreds of eager locals showing up to watch the dance and drum performances.
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Diwali, otherwise known as the Festival of Lights, is a five-day event that is celebrated by millions of people all across the world.
The celebration’s religious background varies for Hindus and Sikhs, but it remains a very significant holiday across both religions, and this year’s event saw the biggest turnout yet.
Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy commented on the size of the crowd that filled the upper floor of the library, explaining that it was so important that the community embraced events like Diwali as much as possible.
“These are trying times right now, but we can unite to show that with darkness, light will always prevail,” said Ruimy.
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Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald shared similar sentiments about the Festival of Lights.
“As we celebrate Diwali, let us remember the values that it represents – light, knowledge, and the triumph of good over evil,” said MacDonald. “Those values should guide us in our daily lives as we work together to make our community an even more welcoming and inclusive place.”
Cindy Bhatti, who is a retired Maple Ridge teacher and one of the directors of the Ridge Meadows South Asian Cultural Society, explained that over the past 49 years, she’s seen the local South Asian community make some significant changes.
“I have seen our community grow in size, but not only in size, in multicultural size as well,” said Bhatti.
“I can remember teaching and maybe one South Asian student would be in the class. Now, look at our community. The South Asian community has really grown in these areas and I’m so happy about that.”
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With the Maple Ridge event now done, Pitt Meadows will prepare to host its own Diwali celebration on Saturday, Nov. 18.
This Diwali gala will take place at Heritage Hall starting at 6 p.m. and will include a buffet, cash bar, kid’s entertainment, and plenty of South Asian cultural performances. Tickets cost approximately $50 for kids age five or older and $70 for adults, with more information available at www.eventbrite.com/e/diwali-gala-2023-tickets-713107422497.