Diwali or Deepavali – the festival of lights and one of the most popular festivals of Hindus all over the world – was celebrated by Aberystwyth Hindu Cultural Society (AHCS) in its second successive year, at the Borth Community Hall on 3 November.

The hall was beautifully decorated with lights, diyas (oil lamps), posters and rangoli decorations.

The atmosphere was electric and the hall was filled with fun and frolic.

The evening was attended by the mayor, Talat Chaudhri, as the chief guest.

Also present were Aberystwyth Blood Bikes - the local charity, and it was to them that the evening was dedicated.

The raised funds were matched by Barclays under its pound-for-pound policy.

The Diwali Bollywood Charity event saw many memorable cultural acts performed by the AHCS members and also by some of the local residents.

The child performers were encouraged and given certificates and prizes by the mayor.

There was also a raffle and saree draping and henna workshops, all of which contributed to raising funds for the chosen charity.

The evening also included delicious ethnic food which was enjoyed by all.

The next festival on the celebration diary for AHCS will be Holi – the festival of colours, in March.

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