Macclesfield Tamil Association organised a warm and memorable evening to celebrate Deepavali, the ‘festival of lights’, and local MP, David Rutley, was invited to join the festivities.
Hosted at Townley Hall on Townley Street, Macclesfield, the well-attended event, at which over 80 local residents were present, was organised by the Macclesfield Tamil Association, which was founded in 2018. Attendees enjoyed readings and impressive and skilled displays of singing and dancing, much of which was performed by younger members of the Association. The event also featured the traditional lighting of candles - symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
At the event, David took the opportunity to thank attendees for welcoming him to this special celebration, and for the positive contribution that the Indian Tamil community make across our local area. He also learned more from Association members about the importance of the Deepavali festival to the community.
Deepavali, or Diwali, is celebrated by many people around the world. During the celebration, temples, homes, shops and office buildings are brightly illuminated with oil lamps and candles, giving rise to its well-known name as the ‘festival of lights’.
Speaking after the event, David said, "It was an honour to join the Macclesfield Tamil Association for this very special occasion. The message of peace is an important one at a time when there is so much conflict in the world. I am grateful to them for the great warmth and hospitality I was shown, and to have the opportunity to share in this important event. I wish all those celebrating this festival a Happy Deepavali."