Deepavali bash in Penang

Every year, Hindus all around the world await the seventh month of the Tamil lunar calendar with excitement as it is the time when they celebrate Deepavali. The festival symbolises the triumph of good over evil when, according to one legend, Lord Krishna defeated the evil King Narakasura.

Deepavali, which means "Row of Lights" in Sanskrit, is celebrated by lighting oil lamps in their homes as a victorious symbol of light over darkness.

In Malaysia, Deepavali is celebrated on a grander scale at the national level with an "open house" concept, which is unique to this country. It sees Malaysians of all races and religions celebrating each other's religious and cultural festivals together and proves that racial tolerance, understanding, respect and unity are observed and treasured in this multi-racial country.

This year, the Deepavali Open House event will be celebrated on October 25 at Padang Kota (Esplanade), Pulau Pinang, from 10 am until 4 pm. It will be launched by their Majesties DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Yang DiPertuan Agong and DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Raja Permaisuri Agong (King and Queen of Malaysia).

As with all Malaysian celebrations, the Deepavali Open House welcomes Malaysians from all races and foreign tourists in Malaysia for an exciting day of non-stop food and entertainment in the presence of Malaysia's beloved King and Queen and respected country and community leaders.

The King and Queen will be welcomed at a ceremony that starts at 10:30 am in Little India, the old Penang district that houses a number of Malaysian Indian stores and eateries. The procession of traditional Indian peacock dancers, colourful trishaws and vintage cars will head towards the main entrance at Padang Kota where the main festivities are held.

The celebrations at Padang Kota include musical performances by Malaysian artistes such as Vince (Akademi Fantasia winner), Alleycats, Ani Mahyuni and Puteri Natasya, traditional dance and music by Istana Budaya and Penang performance troupes, and a special performance by a six-member Kathak dance group from New Delhi, India. At the same time a sumptuous spread of typical Malaysian food will be served to the public free.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin