PICTURES: Diwali celebrations a roaring success in Inverness
A packed out Diwali celebration took place at the Drumossie Hotel on November 10.
Organised by Highland Indian Association the event saw record numbers in attendance, from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The event offered entertainment with music, a play, games and delicious home-cooked food.
The event was graced by Siddharth Malik, consul general of India and Amit Kumar Chaudhary, vice Consul.
Deputy Provost Jackie Hendry and Councillor Duncan McPherson also provided speeches at the event.
"We are thrilled by the success of HIA’s Diwali Celebration 2024 and the tremendous support we received from the attendees," said Rajkumar Dhanaraj, president of HIA.
"This event is a testament to the power of the HIA community and our shared commitment to celebrating our cultural values with the broader community. We are already looking forward to making next year's event even bigger and better."
The evening’s cultural program was coordinated by HIA cultural secretary Sheeba Regan.
HIA secretary Shyam Karthikeyan coordinated the catering and treasurer Saiju Pallty concluded the event with a heartfelt thanks to all those involved in the success of the celebration.
Mr Dhanaraj extended his gratitude to all attendees, committee members, and volunteers who contributed to making the celebration a tremendous success.
Special thanks were given to the chief guests for their support.
For more information about the Highland Indian Association and to stay updated on future events, visit www.highlandindianassociation.co.uk.
What is Diwali?
The word Diwali means 'rows of lighted lamps'. It is celebrated by Hindu people across the world.
Diwali is known as the 'festival of lights' because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small oil lamps called 'diyas'.
Diwali always falls some time between October and November, but the exact date varies each year as the Hindu calendar is based on the Moon.