Diwali on the Square

Sunday 19 October 2008
Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square hosted celebrations to mark Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on Sunday 19 October 2008, organised by the Greater London Authority and Diwali in London Committee, in association with Barclays. Around 25,000 people came to the square for this free event.

Diwali on the Square is a wonderful day for all the family, and sees the square transformed by magical light displays and music and dance performances.

Programme

• 3pm - 3.45pm: An opportunity to learn and join in the Garba - a traditional circular dance, with Shama and Friends live band.
• 4.15pm - 4.45pm: Opening Ceremony with lamp lighting and Diwali songs.
• 4.45pm - 6.45pm: A celebration of dance in many styles, including Kathak from North India, Oddissi dancers from Orissa, classical Bharata Natyam, contemporary dance and a touch of Bhangra. Performances by Saraswati Academy of Indian Dance, Akademi, Encee Academy of Performing Arts, Apsara Dancers, Mudralaya and Kala - The Arts. Musical Medleys from Chinmaya Mission and a special live performance of Jay Kumar’s Diwali anthem song.
• 6.45pm – 7.30pm: Presentation by Star with special guest artists.
• 7.30pm – 8pm: Aarti (traditional prayers and singing with lamps) and finale.

The National Gallery also celebrated Diwali on 19 October, with dancing, music and storytelling - Diwali at the National Gallery.

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