A Diwali market, Asian arts talent show and Indian cultural workshops will be held in celebration of the Hindu festival of lights in Watford, Hertfordshire. This will be free and open to all members of the public from 12-4:30pm as part of 'Diwali on the Parade'. At 4:20pm, a light procession , formed of attendees, performers and community groups, armed with their own divas (lanterns), will accompany an impressive illuminated Lord Ganesh, mobile peacocks and dhol drums up the parade, which will be a sight to behold! Later, 'Diwali at the Palace' will see the Watford Palace Theatre showcase a special evening of spectacular classical Indian dance and drama, featuring a large cast of performers, stunning costumes, multimedia projections and English narration. This will be followed by a complimentary post-show Indian snack. Talented hosts Harman Singh and Nimi Mehta will be hosting the community performance stage all day from 12 noon to 4.30pm which will include:
Workshops taking place as part of Diwali on the Parade include:
The Culture of India Tent
- Take part in a traditional Indian music or dance workshop
- Get dressed up in a beautiful sari and imagine yourself in a Bollywood film (continuously through the day)
- Get your face painted with Gopi Dots – traditional Indian designs that are used to decorate around the eyes, brow and cheeks. (continuously throughout the day)
- Indulge in some beautiful Mendi designs – (continuously throughout the day - charges applicable)
- Or just come along and ask about any of the activities displayed here and collect a free information booklet to take away.
Join the International Society for Krishna Consciousness for meditation workshops (on the hour from 1pm to 4pm. Sessions last 15 – 20 minutes). Listen to a talk on 'Spirituality: An Eastern Perspective'. (1.20pm, 2.20pm, 3.20pm and 4.20pm – talks last approximately 20 minutes). Visit mini Diwali Market will have a great selection of Indian foods, clothing, accessories, crafts, homeware and more. For more: www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk