The Durban Diwali Festival, recognized as the largest Diwali festival on the African continent, is set to take place at the Suncoast parking site from Friday to Sunday. Organized by the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, the event has grown to promote Hindu culture, spirituality, community upliftment, and social responsibility. This year's festival promises to be an exciting event with a range of activities for visitors of all ages.
The festival will kick off on Friday at 2 pm with dance, live bands, and performances by various artists, including the KPSM School of Music, KanthaRuby Dance Academy, Rohan Ramkisson, and Vishen Kemraj. Chutney music fans can look forward to Dostana Nagara at 8 pm. The entertainment will continue throughout the day on the main stage, featuring cultural performances, music, and interfaith contributions.
On Saturday, the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, together with representatives of other faith groups, will host an interfaith walk against gender-based violence (GBV) along the Suncoast promenade, starting at 8:30 am. The initiative aims to honor those who have lost their lives to GBV and turn public concern into action. Registration for the walk will take place on Friday between 6 pm and 8 pm.
The festival will also feature an on-site mandir, which will remain open throughout the festival, giving visitors the opportunity to offer a lamp for the auspicious month of Karthik in association with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. On Saturday afternoon, the Shree Sanathan Dharma Sabha of South Africa will conduct Sundarkand recitals at the mandir.
The formal opening ceremony will take place on Saturday at 7 pm, followed by the Incredible India fireworks display at 8:15 pm. The excitement will continue with Shiv Shuffler, whose performance is set to spread even more Diwali cheer. Festival-goers can also enjoy a variety of Indian street food and fast food at the on-site food festival.
On Sunday, the morning will begin with a hawan ceremony featuring gurus from across the various Indian linguistic groups. The day will also include devotional music (bhajan) performances by various organizations, followed by the South African Raam Bhajan Association's Bhajan Festival. Visitors can also enjoy late-night shopping and a kiddies' fun fair.
Admission to the festival is R20 per person, and parking is available. For more information, contact the South African Hindu Maha Sabha at 031 309 1951 or Neeran Besesar on 082 788 5767. The festival values the principles of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance through cultural traditions and devotional activities.
Key points
- The Durban Diwali Festival will feature a GBV walk on Saturday to raise awareness and promote action against gender-based violence.
- The festival will include a range of cultural performances, music, and devotional activities, as well as an on-site mandir and food festival.
- Admission to the festival is R20 per person, with parking available on site.
