The Fiji community of Christchurch took part in a Diwali event that witnessed a traditional Hindu puja alongside a fun-filled evening.
Organised by the Christchurch Fiji Association - CFCESSA, which is one of the oldest organisations in Christchurch, the event saw around 150 people get together and enjoy the festivities at the Sanatan Hall, St John Street on October 21.
Since it began organising Diwali Puja nearly two decades ago, CFCESSA has gained a loyal following of community members seeking divine blessings at the ceremony.
The ceremonies were opened by Jagat Singh, the association's president, at 6 pm with a Havan and Laxmi Pooja. This was followed by the Ramayan paath, which reminded everyone of the glorious life and teachings of Lord Rama. Prasad was then served, and chief guest Pundit Rup Prakash addressed the assembled community and expressed his warmest Diwali wishes.
The cultural part of the event started at 8.30 pm with performances by some talented artists that included dance routines by Michelle Permal, Jayshree Ratnam and Rajneel Narayan. Other performers who impressed the audience with their talents were Shanaya, Aashi Bhardwaj, Vijay and Rynal Ram. Joshua Devanbu brought a classic Indian flair to the proceedings with his tabla performance. The audience responded to the vibrant display of Indian culture with loud applause.
The event concluded with a Raffle draw followed by dinner.
The event successfully brought together this small but thriving community and provided a platform to showcase the young generation's talent. People appreciated the cultural component of the event in addition to receiving blessings on the auspicious festival by participating in the puja.