On Saturday, October 26, Muriel Arnason Library and the Township of Langley celebrated their 10th annual Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Over 500 people participated in this colourful event and enjoyed Henna, crafts, face painting, Punjabi Folk Dance Bhangra, turban wrapping demonstrations, entering draws, and food in a festive atmosphere. Township of Langley Mayor Jack Froese, Councillor Grant Ward, Councillor Kim Richter, Councillor Charlie Fox, Councillor Steve Ferguson, Councillor Bob Long, Councillor Bev Dornan as well as Township of Langley manager Bev Herman, Judi the Manners Lady, Bob Gabriel, Mnager, ISSofBC, and Muriel Arnason’s daughter Petrina Arnason were among those who enjoyed the celebrations. Mayor Jack Froese, Councillor Grant Ward, and Judi conveyed their wishes to the community for a happy Diwali.
Muriel Arnason Library was filled with people of all ages during the afternoons’ festivities. Seven year old Ishaan Singh Rangi entertained the audience with his lively Bhangra. A short presentation on history and the importance of the turban in Sikhism by Jashanpreet Singh Randhawa was very well received. Sarwan Singh Randhawa and Baljit Singh Kundan did many turban tying demonstrations. Councillor Charlie Fox and Councillor Steve Ferguson, Bruce Broomfield, MLA (ret) Dave Hayer, along with many others participated in getting the turban wrapped. A young girl ‘Valery Savchenko’ also got a turban tied on her head. There were many other entertaining activities as all ages could choose to have their hands decorated with Mehndi, or henna. Children enjoyed face-painting, creating colourful lights, and did a variety of crafts.
People expressed their happiness in their wonderful comments on the tremendous success of the event. In a congratulation note, Councillor Kim Richter mentioned the event as “Great Event, Great Activities, Great Food, Great fun for all – this event gets bigger and better every year!!!” Lilianne Fuller wrote, “What a fun afternoon, celebrating Diwali with the community.”
Everyone enjoyed multicultural food including Samosas, Pakoras, different types of cookies, juices, and coffee. At the end of the program, Community Librarian Dr. Sarwan Singh Randhawa thanked the audience, performers, media and volunteers.
