BY TERESA HARDING
Happy Diwali to all who celebrate this bright and joyful tradition.
Also known as Deepavali, the Festival of Lights symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
Its message remains as meaningful today as ever, reminding us of the importance of hope, resilience and looking towards a brighter future.
Diwali is an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes Ipswich such a vibrant and welcoming community.
Ipswich is proudly multicultural, home to residents from more than 163 countries who speak over 152 languages.
Ipswich’s Indian community makes a valued contribution to the social, cultural and economic life of our city, helping to enrich the diverse community we are proud to call home.
Through celebrations such as Diwali, we build understanding, strengthen connections and bring people together through shared cultural experiences.
And what better way to enjoy time with family and friends.
I invite the Ipswich community to embrace this special celebration and take in all the colour and light it brings to our city.
I would also like to thank the organisers, volunteers and community groups who work so hard to bring Diwali celebrations to life.
Thanks to your contributions, more people can come together to experience the warmth, traditions and sense of community that Diwali brings each year.
I wish you all a happy and peaceful Diwali.

