BACOLOD City will hold the 5th Diwali Festival on November 8 to 12 with activities organized by the local Indian community.
Festival coordinator Haresh Chugani said Monday, November 6, this year’s festival themed “Unity in Diversity” will be held at SM City Bacolod, Bacolod public plaza, and Robinsons Place Bacolod.
The opening will be on November 8 at the SM City with the exhibit dubbed Glimpse of India’s influence on Asean countries to be led by city officials and Punjabi Khalsa Diwan directors.
Chugani said festival will showcase yoga, ayurveda, and holistic healing session on November 9 at the SM City Bacolod Atrium, North Mall.
It will be followed by a grand Diwali Festival Ball on November 10 at the SMX Convention Center. They will honor Indian and other notable personalities in Bacolod City.
On November 11, a Diwali Ala MassKara will be held at the Bacolod public plaza. There will be a turban tie competition, fireworks display, and live band concert on that day.
On November 12, a Bollywood film showing will be held at Robinsons Place Bacolod.
Diwali is a festival of lights and it is the biggest festival in India.
Chugani said the City Government allocated P1.2 million for the five-day celebration.
“We are very proud that the City Government created an ordinance for this yearly celebration. We invite everyone to come and join the Diwali Festival celebration with a lot of participations from the local talents and special groups in Manila,” he added.
Chugani said Indian foods and other products will also be available at SM City.