London’s Trafalgar Square was a hub of colour and festivity on Sunday, October 12, as the city celebrated its annual ‘Diwali on the Square’ from 2–8pm. An unprecedented number of people were seen queuing as for the first time bags were being checked for security reasons. The square was packed with people enjoying the season's first of the Diwali events.
Organised by the Mayor of London in partnership with the Diwali in London Committee, the free event remains one of the capital’s most vibrant cultural festivals, attracting crowds from across the city.
Celebrating its 24th year, the event honoured the festival of lights, marking the victory of good over evil and observed by Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities worldwide.
Ahead of the event, controversy arose over the inclusion of certain organisations accused of promoting Hindu nationalism, prompting protests and calls for their exclusion. The Mayor’s office emphasised that ‘Diwali on the Square’ is an inclusive celebration showcasing the best of London. Despite the debate, the event was a success, drawing thousands to Trafalgar Square.
This year’s Diwali event, themed ‘Educate, Illuminate, Celebrate,’ kicked off with a mass Garba performance, followed by a lively stage programme featuring classical, folk, and Bollywood acts, including appearances from BAPS Neasden Temple, Chinmaya Mission UK, and the Bollywood Dance School.
Trafalgar Square buzzed with family-friendly activities beyond the stage, such as sari and turban tying, yoga and meditation sessions, puppet shows, and cultural quizzes in the Children’s Zone. Visitors also enjoyed ‘A Glimpse of Goddesses’, a meditative display celebrating the nine forms and virtues of the Goddess in Hindu tradition, alongside a vibrant Ganesh murti exhibition.
The square was filled with the aroma of fresh vegetarian and vegan dishes as visitors explored food stalls and pop-up shops offering festive sweets, savouries, and handmade crafts. Neasden Temple shared on X, “We were delighted to join the wider British Hindu community for the ‘Diwali in London’ celebrations hosted by @MayorofLondon @SadiqKhan at Trafalgar Square. Children from @BAPS NeasdenTemple delivered Vedic prayers, invoking the timeless Hindu values of peace, harmony, and goodness. Volunteers also highlighted the upcoming @BAPSParis Hindu Mandir in France.”
Taking the stage, London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan wished everyone a Happy Diwali and paid tribute to the Diwali in London committee. He acknowledged those who try to divide communities, saying, “You show our city at its very best. You show the importance of the teachings of Diwali.” Reflecting on his school lessons about Rama and Sita, he spoke of light defeating darkness, good overcoming evil, and knowledge conquering ignorance, values that are needed now more than ever.
He added, “Here in Trafalgar Square, people from all walks of life, grandparents, parents, children, Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, and those without faith, come together. From London and beyond, everyone is welcome to celebrate.” He concluded, “Have a wonderful Diwali this year. Let us show the world why London is the greatest city in the world.”
