THE borough is preparing to be dazzled at the Festival of Lights next month. Diwali, the start of the New Year in the traditional Indian calendar, is a five day festival symbolising light triumphing over darkness and is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Ja

THE borough is preparing to be dazzled at the Festival of Lights next month.

Diwali, the start of the New Year in the traditional Indian calendar, is a five day festival symbolising light triumphing over darkness and is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains.

The festival derives its name from the Sanskrit word 'dipavali' meaning a row of lights, and the theme of light will be incorporated into celebrations at Brent Diwali, held this year at the Shri Sanatan Hindu Mandir Temple in Ealing Road, Wembley on Saturday October 10.

Mayor of Brent, Cllr Jim O'Sullivan said: "The Festival of Lights is one of the most anticipated events for local people in the borough.

"People of all ages and cultures annually flock to Ealing Road to witness the colour, music and cuisine of this truly unique event.

"Join in the celebrations on October 10, and make it Brent's biggest Diwali yet."

Traditional Indian dance and an exhibition of rangoli artworks will kick off the festivities at 1pm, and later in the evening Cllr Harshadbhai B. Patel will switch Diwali lights and illuminate Ealing Road.

A procession of lit floats, costumed dancers and musicians will then make its way from the temple to Barham Park, where the night will conclude with a fireworks and laser show.

With a turn out of 35,000 people last year, the event is one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside India and promises to be a spectacle of colourful floats, Indian music and fireworks.