Diwali Mela celebrations held in Winnipeg and Brisbane

Cultural celebrations for Diwali took place in Winnipeg, Canada, and Brisbane, Australia, showcasing Indian heritage through music, dance, and traditional arts.

In Winnipeg, the Hindu Society of Manitoba organized the Diwali Mela at the RBC Convention Centre under the theme ‘Yatra Kala Tatra Shakti’. The event featured Punjabi bhangra, Rajasthani folk dance, Bengali Dhunuchi dance, and Maharashtra’s Lavani. Attendees participated in workshops including mandala painting and Ganesh idol making, while a procession led by the Marathi Mandal of Manitoba featured lezim and dhol beats.

In Brisbane, the Diwali Mela at Eat Street Northshore drew 5,500 attendees for a sold-out event organized by DesiKanGroove. The celebration included over 120 performers presenting traditional and contemporary music and dance across three stages. An Indian Street Market offered food such as chaat, dosas, and curries, alongside traditional clothing, jewelry, and handcrafted goods.