Diwali Guide 2011

LEICESTER

GUIDE 2011

Diwali CelebrationsSupported by

Chetwode House, 1 Samworth Way, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1GA. www.samworthbrothers.co.uk

Samworth Brothers would like to thank all its staff and friends in Leicestershire for another successful year and

wishes everyone peace, prosperity and a happy Diwali.Our companies proudly contributing to the future of the county include Bradgate Bakery, Walkers Charnwood Bakery,

Midshire Foods, Saladworks, Blueberry Foods, Melton Foods, Kettleby Foods, Dickinson & Morris and Samworth Brothers Distribution.

Supporting the Diwali Celebrations

Peter SoulsbyCity Mayor

Councillor Piara Singh ClairChair of the Diwali Working Party

Welcome from Councillor Piara Singh Clair,Chair of the Diwali Working Party.

Diwali is one of the most important andprestigious festivals in our culture. It has grownfrom strength to strength as a main attraction inthe festival calendar of the city and we are proudto host these wonderful celebrations in Leicester,one of the most culturally diverse cities in thecountry.

Diwali is a time for people from all cultures to come together in a spirit offriendship and greater understanding. It is the time for families and friendsto gather together.

It is my proud privilege to be chair of the Diwali Working Party. I would like toexpress my thanks to all those that have been involved for their role and hardwork to make the celebration a success. Without them our wonderful Diwalicelebrations would not be possible. So it gives me great pleasure to join inthe celebrations by wishing you all a very happy and peaceful Diwali.

As Leicester’s first elected City Mayor, it isa special privilege for me to send Diwaligreetings to you all.

Our Diwali celebrations are some of the biggestin the world outside India and we can rightly beproud of them. To those of you who are visitingLeicester to share Diwali with us, may I welcomeyou warmly on behalf of our city.

This is a time of celebrating the victory of goodover evil and recognising light as the symbol of knowledge and understanding.As we do this, we also look to that peace and harmony among our city’sdiverse faiths, cultures and communities that has made Leicester such a vibrantand special place.

I would like to thank all those who make our Diwali possible, particularlyLeicester City Council’s Festivals and Events, Parks Services and Highwaysteams and the Leicester Hindu Festival Council and every volunteer andcontractor involved. I would also like to thank Leicestershire Constabulary,Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and St John Ambulance who do somuch to make our celebrations safe and successful.

May I wish everyone a happy Diwali and prosperous New Year.

Diwali Greetings3

This guide is produced by Leicester CityCouncil Marketing and Brand Management.

We welcome your comments regarding thispublication. Please write to:Marketing and Brand Management,New Walk Centre, Welford Place, LeicesterLE1 6ZG Tel: 0116 252 7141

Design and artwork:David Weight Design+Artworkwww.dwdesignartwork.co.uk

ContentsWhat is Diwali? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 - 5Golden Mile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 - 9Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 - 11Creating a Lasting Legacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Celebrating a Local Olympian . . . . . . . . . . 13Celebrations Around the World . . . . 16 - 17Decorations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 - 192011 Celebrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Developing the Golden Mile . . . . . . . . . . . . 21The Art of Mehndi & Henna . . . . . . 22 - 23Curry Capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Taste of Diwali . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 - 27Working Party & Operations Group . . . . 28Shopping Festival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 - 31Events & Celebrations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 - 33Books for Children. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Crime Safety & Fire Awareness . . . . . . . . 36Roads Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

What is Diwali?4

Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world and especially Leicester, will becelebrating Diwali the Festival of Light. During this time, homes are decoratedwith rangoli patterns and sweets and presents are given. Thousands of lightsare lit and fireworks celebrate the renewal of life and the triumph of goodover evil and signify self-enlightenment.

It is customary to express love and affection for lovedones during Diwali.

In the past, homemade gifts were exchanged - althoughof no monetary value they were nevertheless special.Traditional gifts include: sweets, Lord Ganesha andGoddess Lakshmi idols, gold or silver coins, Puja Thaliand Ram Darbar.

Nowadays, more expensive presents are bought aspeoples’ spending power increases. Although Diwali isa very spiritual time of year, as with any celebration,the more money people have, the more commercial itbecomes.

Throughout the year it is expected that money will besaved for Diwali, and that it will be an expensive timefor families, as Eid and Christmas are for other

religions. However at this time of year it is importantto remember the underlying significance of this festival -to search for inner light, and not get carried away withmaterial goods.

Leicester is proud to host the largest Diwali Festivalcelebrations outside India. People outside Leicester, andeven outside England flock to celebrate with us, helpingto make our festival as multicultural as possible.

During the festival we hope that people enjoy newexperiences, including trying new foods and watchingthe fantastic firework display – and that everyone willembrace the essence of Diwali during the season.

‘Tamaso ma jyotir gamaya’ is the spiritual messagemeaning ‘lead me from darkness to light’.



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HinduismDiwali, which comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali(a cluster of lights), is one of the most popular festivalscelebrated in India. It welcomes in the New Year andsymbolises the defeat of the darkness that engulfs thelight of knowledge. As such, homes and businesses aredecorated with lights around this time. It was originallyheld to celebrate the return of Lord Rama and his familyto their kingdom in Ayodhya after years fighting thedemon king of Sri Lanka. As they returned at nightthe people lit oil lamps to guide their way home. Sincethen, Diwali has been celebrated on Amavasa, the15th day of the dark fortnight (new moon) of the Hindumonth Kartika, falling at the end of October or start ofNovember.

There are five days to celebrate:Day one – Lakshmi Pooja. Doorways are hung withmango leaves and marigolds, homes are cleaned towelcome Lakshmi, lamps are arranged in houses andgifts are given.

Day two – Naraka Chatrudashi. Kali is worshipped.Focus on abolishing evil.

Day three – Diwali Day. Lamps are lit in homes tocelebrate the end of the year. This is also the last day ofthe traditional Hindu business year. The day ends withhuge firework displays.

Day four – Bestavarsh. Start of the Hindu New Year.

Day five – Bhaiya Dooj or the Teeka Ceremony.This day is important as it highlights the relationshipbetween siblings.

SikhismBandhi Chhorr DivasThe story of Diwali or ‘Bandhi Chhorr Divas’ for Sikhs isa story of the struggle for freedom. The mogul emperorJahingir felt growing concern at the emergence of thenew military power of Sikhs in India. His advisors andothers devised a plan to imprison the Sikh’s 6th Guru,Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, for 40 days at GwaliorFortress. As news began to spread Sikhs wereconcerned about Guru Ji’s imprisonment and feared

that Jahingir may be planning a similiar fate as GuruArjan Dev Ji the 5th Guru. Fifty Two Hindu Rajas (Kings)were also imprisoned; they’d been deprived of theirkingdoms and were treated very badly. Guru Ji waspained to see this and shared all his rations, survivingwith very little himself. Hazarat Mian Mir was a highlyreligious and regarded Muslim holy man but also adevotee of the 5th Guru. He and many Holy Men werevery angry and told the Emperor that what he had donewas wrong and to release Guru Ji immediately.The Emperor released Guru Ji but Guru Ji refused toleave on his own, stating he would only leave if theother 52 Rajas were also released. The Emperor agreedbut only those that could hold Guru Ji’s robe would bereleased. Guru Ji had a special robe made with 52Khalia (tapers).

The day Guru Ji was released coincided with the Day ofDiwali. This is why today Sikhs celebrate the release ofGuru Ji on Diwali. Guru Ji was named ‘Bandhi Chhorr’~ The Deliverer of Prisoners. The congregationcelebrate in Amritsar (Golden Temple) by lightingcandles on the sarowar (it is considered to be sacredwater surrounding the golden temple) out of love andrespect and this tradition continues today. Sikhs inLeicester celebrate in the gurdwaras (temples).

JainismJainism, one of India’s most ancient religions, wasrevived by Bhagwan Mahavir (born in 599 BC) whoorganised the teachings in its present form.

Jainism attempts to explain the meaning of life andthe purpose of existence.

The attainment of moksa (a final liberation of the soul)is linked to permanent happiness and Diwalicommemorates this. The teachings are based onnon - violence and non - materialism. Leicester boaststhe largest Jain temple in the country.

Happy Diwali and a prosperous New Yearfrom Leicester Council of Faiths

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Golden MileTake a trip down the Golden Mile and you won’t be disappointed. Leicester’sfabulous Golden Mile takes its name from the many goldsmiths and adorningjewellery stores both sides of this mile long feast of colour and bustle.

Shop windows overflow with opulentdisplays of fine Indian silks, organzas andsaris. There’s a wide variety of fashionstores selling beautiful saris detailed withsequins and intricate embroidery. Shopsalso carry a vast range of accessories,beautiful bags, gorgeous shoes andluxuriant pashminas.

Jewellery stores are one of the mainattractions of shopping in this area. Moregold is sold here than anywhere in Europe,and the Asian taste for ornate jewellery hasturned Belgrave Road into an Aladdins Caveof precious metal. The typical yellow goldhas long been a topseller and is consideredvery valuable. Although yellow gold is themost popular choice, there has been anincrease in the sales of white gold andplatinum also. Pop into one of the jewellersalong the Golden Mile and the friendlystaff will be happy to explain the customsand traditions behind the jewellery.

For those with a sweet tooth, there arenumerous speciality sweet shops, and fora more savoury palette a selection ofAsian restaurants both pure vegetarianand traditional Gujurati.

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Take a trip down theGolden Mile and youwon’t be disappointed.


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Diwali in SchoolsMany schools in Leicester celebrate Diwali. This is through assemblies, sacreddancing, artwork, plays and performances based on why Hindus, Sikhs andJains celebrate Diwali.

One of the stories is taken from theRamayana an ancient Hindu scripture.It tells the story of the exiled Lord Ramawhose wife Sita is kidnapped by the demonKing Ravana of Sri Lanka. Lord Rama killsthe demon King with a bow and arrow,and eventually rescues, with the help of hisbrother Lakshmana and Hanuman, themonkey God.

After fourteen years Lord Rama’s exilecomes to an end. Along with Sita andLakshamana he follows the rows of lampsthat people have lit along the roads toguide him back to his Kingdom, wherehe becomes King and lives there with Sitaas his Queen.

Activities in schools and homes across theUK and around the world involve childrenexploring Asian culture and traditions,including praying to the Goddess Lakshmiwho is the symbol of wealth. Otheractivities include Rangoli and mehndi(patterns), dance, poetry, storytelling,history, geography, religion, festivals,having fun and parties.

Answers:1)Leicester’sBelgraveRoad2)Hindus,Sikhs,Jains3)GulabJamun,GajarKaHalwa,BesanKeLadoo,KaranjiandJalebis4)6,5005)DineIndia,LittleIndia,LeejaPalaceandAnjuna6)Theartofdecoratingthebodywithhenna(usuallyhandsandfeet)7)KingRavanaofSriLanka8)26thOctober9)Wealth&Prosperity10)AtDashera

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Try theDiwali QuizAll of the answers can be found within this guide.(Or by looking below!)

See how many of the following questions you get right

1 Where is the Golden Mile?

2 Name three religions that celebrate Diwali

3 What are some of the special sweets eaten at Diwali?

4 How many lamps make up the Diwali display onBelgrave Road?

5 Which 4 restaurants are in the final of CurryCapital of Britain 2011?

6 What is mehndi?

7 Who kidnapped Lord Rama’s wife, Sita?

8 When is Diwali Day in 2011?

9 What does the Goddess Lakshmi symbolise?

10 When do Diwali festivities start in North India?

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Join online at:www.gmb.org.uk

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Creating a Lasting Legacyfor 2012What will your pledge be for 2012?Help us create a lasting legacy from the London 2012 Games,right here in Leicester. Tell us what your personal pledge for2012 will be.

It is entirely up to you what you pledge, but take a look at our'pledge makers' below for a bit of inspiration. Think about theOlympic & Paralympic values of Respect, Excellence, Friendship,Determination, Courage, Inspiration and Equality. How will yourpledge reflect these and have a positive impact on your life?

“My 2012 pledge is to get my bike repaired and cycle regularlywith my son.”

“To run the London Marathon and get to the finish line smiling!”

“Take up a new sport by 2012.”

“To help volunteer at the 2012 Games”

“Try to go for a 30 minute walk every day and eat healthier”

“Spend more quality time with my kids, enjoying them forwhat they are!”

“Stop smoking.”

“Do 100 handstands and 50 cartwheels”

“Have more family outings and to teach the children moreabout the environment.”

It’s easy to make a pledge, just log ontowww.inspireleics.org.uk

“Our 2012 pledge is tolearn to knit and createa multi-coloured blanketto show the many differentpeople who come togetherto celebrate culture.”

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Celebrating a Local OlympianJennie Fletcher 1890 – 1968To the vast majority of people the name JennieFletcher does not mean anything, yet in 1912she was a household name, Olympic swimmingchampion and a local hero.From humble beginnings, this daughter of a fishmonger was born inChecketts Road, in Belgrave, Leicester in 1890, one of 11 children.Jennie first learned to swim when she was a pupil at Mellor PrimarySchool at a time when there were strict codes of propriety for womenswimmers. Girls would emerge from changing rooms in cloaks, onlydropping them as they dived into the pool, then putting them straightback on when they emerged from the water.

In 1906 Jennie became the all-round lady champion of Leicester and2,000 people attended Cossington Street Baths to witness Jenniebecome the new English 100 yards swimming champion in a new worldrecord time. Her determination and commitment then took her from thecobbled streets of Belgrave to win gold and bronze medals in the1912 Stockholm Olympic Games. She was one of Britain's first femaleswimmers to claim an Olympic gold medal when, alongside teammates Irene Steer, Annie Speirs and Belle Moore, she swam to victoryin Stockholm in the 4x100m freestyle relay and then came third in theindividual 100 yds final.

Following her victory she retired from competitive swimming in 1913 andmoved to Canada with her husband, only visiting her home city oncemore before she died in 1968. Jennie was inducted into the SwimmingHall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1971. Above her picture arethe words inscribed, “The world’s first great woman swimmer”. A plaque in Cossington Street Baths, a mile fromwhere she grew up, commemorate Jennie’s amazing achievements. When the Olympics come to London in 2012,this will mark the 100th anniversary of Belgrave-born Jennie Fletcher swimming into the history books.

When the Olympic & Paralympic Games come to London in 2012, it will mark the100th anniversary of Belgrave-born Jennie Fletcher swimming into the history books.

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Diwali CelebrationsAround the World -Focus on India

The Goddess Lakshmi symbolises wealth and prosperity and herblessings are invoked for a good year ahead. Lights signify awelcome to prosperity in the form of Lakshmi, so during Diwalilights illuminate every corner of India.

In the north most communities observe the custom of lightinglamps, the scent of incense hangs in the air and is mixed with thesounds of fireworks which are supposed to scare away evil spirits.

While the story of Diwali and the way it is celebrated varies fromregion to region the essence is the same – to rejoice in the InnerLight (Atman) or the underlying reality of things (Brahman)

Diwali in North IndiaIn the North Diwali festivities start at Dashera. There are numerouslegends and local customs associated with this festival butcommon to all is the lighting of homes and pathways. On DiwaliDay shops remain open until the afternoon, believing that goodsales on Diwali Day predict a prosperous year ahead. Sweets anddry fruits are the most common gifts as are silver coins. Streets arealive with the temporary stages holding the Ramlila – a dramaticrendition of the story of Ramayan and this continues for severalevenings.

Diwali in South IndiaThe festival often commemorates the conquering of Asura Naraka,a powerful King of Assam who imprisoned tens of thousands ofinhabitants who were eventually freed by Krishna. Keral is the onlystate in India where Diwali is not a major festival, traditionallycelebrations are a low key affair but places where Tamil, Bengaliand various North Indian communities reside Diwali is celebratedwith great zest with communities arranging grand feasts andvisiting temples and fairs.

Diwali is an official holiday in India and is the last major festival before winter.It marks the end of both the financial year and farming season and in ruralareas farmers give thanks for the bounty of years gone by and pray for a goodharvest for the year to come.

In the north most commcustom of lighting lamphangs in the air...

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munities observe theps, the scent of incense

Regional Significanceof DiwaliTamil Nadu: A traditional visit to the Temple is a significant ritualof the day. The city of Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu is the capital ofIndia’s firework industry so there is no shortage of fireworks.

Karnataka: Lamps are lit in every courtyard and crackers areburst. The main time for celebration is early morning and latenight as the hours of darkness are best for the lovely effects oflights and fireworks which are the highlights to the festivities.

Andhra Pradesh: Most people go to the local temple to seekblessings of their respective gods and the night sky is filled withfantastic (and noisy!) fireworks. Often the festivities cut acrossboundaries and move from small villages to the big towns, insome cases a month before Diwali to indulge in the largestshopping spree of the year.

Maharashtra: Here Diwali is linked to the legendary King Bali.The broom used to clean the home is also worshipped as asymbol of Lakshmi in some places. Padwa, the 1st day of thenew month or Kartik in the Hindu calendar marks the start of theHindu financial year. It is a special day for husband and wife,the wife puts tilak on her husband’s forehead and receives anexpensive gift.

Orissa: Some people also worship family goddess Mahavidya.A Rangoli of a sailboat is made on the ground and beside theRangoli a pestle and a plough are kept and worshipped andofferings are made. A jute stem with a cloth wick is lit at thebeginning of puja and all members of the family hold a bundleof jute stems, lighting their respective bundles from the flame onthe Rangoli, then raise them skywards chanting.

Bengal & Assam: The goddess of Kali is worshipped here andshe takes away darkness and purifies her devotees with thesincerity of her love.

Goa and Konkan: Homes are decorated with lamps, mangoleaves and marigold flowers. A bitter berry called kareet iscrushed under the feet symbolising evil and the removal ofignorance. Melas are found in many towns and villages wherefarmers buy and sell produce, snake charmers and fortunetellers perform and there is entertainment for the whole family.Women and girls wear colourful clothing and new jewellery andtheir hands are decorated with henna designs.


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Diwali DecorationsRangoli:Colourful Rangoli designs are made on the floor ofthe living room or entranceway, to welcome GoddessLakshmi, and are considered a good luck symbol.Commonly made with vibrant colours, rice flour orchalk, Rangoli make a magnificent piece of art andplacing an earthen diva at the centre of the rangoliwill enhance the overall effect.

Divas:The traditional way of illuminating the home andpremises on Diwali is to light divas, the earthen lamps,made out of clay. There are a wide variety of divasavailable on the market. So, decorate your home andpremises with beautiful divas by placing them at thewindowsill, doorstep, staircase and hallway.

Candles:Candles are equally important, when it comes to thehome décor for Diwali. Cylindrical candles can servethe purpose for your windowsill, arrange an assortmentof divas and candles to welcome guests and GoddessLakshmi.

Electric lights:While candles and divas have a special place why notalso brighten up your rooms with the use of decorativechandeliers and a string of colourful LED lights at theentranceway.

Torans ordoor hangings:Decorate your home with torans in particular themain entrance door and worship room. Try toransmade of fresh flowers or garlands or add bells, shells,reflective gems, mirrors or a picture of Lord Ganesha.

Flowers:Flowers are great embellishments. Spread the aromaof flowers in your home, by filling a flower vase witharomatic fresh cut flowers and place it in your livingroom.

Idols andSculptures ofLaxmi andGanesh:An essential part of Diwali is worshipping GoddessLakshmi and Lord Ganesha and these are availablein a variety of sizes, silver and brass.


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Leicester is set to dazzle with the switch on of its worldfamous annual Diwali lights and stunning Diwali Daycelebrations. Everyone of all ages and cultures arewelcome to enjoy the festivities and join in the spiritof unity, community and harmony.

The Festival of Light celebrations begin with theilluminated lights display along Belgrave Road, alsoknown as the Golden Mile. Created by Leicester CityCouncil the display will stretch for more than 1000metres and is made up of 6,500 lamps.

On 16th and 26th October, the area will come alivewith shops and restaurants opening late into the eveningand a programme of dance and music performance fromBollywood numbers to Punjabi and Gujarati folk dance,

with both events culminating in spectacular firework andlaser displays at Cossington Street Recreation Ground.

Leicester’s celebration will culminate in a finale ofcelebrations on Diwali Day as tens of thousands of peoplefrom across the country arrive on Belgrave Roadto take part in one of the biggest and best celebrationsoutside India.

Diwali Lights Switch On:Sunday 16th October 6pm – 8.30pm

Diwali Day:Wednesday 26th October 6.45pm – 9.00pm

For more information visit www.leicester.gov.uk/diwaliFacebook/leicesterfestivals Twitter @leicesterfest

Belgrave Road and Cossington Street Recreation Ground

Diwali 2011 Celebrations20

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The Golden Mile, in many ways, is the jewel inLeicester’s crown. There’s everything you couldwish for there – fantastic spices, food and drink,entertainment and shopping including someof the best jewellery and sari shops knownregionally and nationally.Recently, the Belgrave Business Association has been working jointlywith Leicester City Council, local community representatives and localresidents to look at how they could improve the area, to enhance theexperience of living in, visiting and staying at Leicester’s Golden Mile.

Some of the exciting work that will be happening over the next threemonths includes celebrating the area by letting visitors know exactlywhere the Golden Mile is, erecting brown directional signs, guidingpeople into the area. Another exciting project will see lamp post bannersgo up along the mile long stretch that is the Golden Mile, welcomingpeople to the area.

Many other possible improvements are being considered at the moment,including improving the experience of coming into the area (either bycar or on foot), holding clean up events, shop front and generalenvironmental improvements.

If you have any comments or suggestions as to how we can enhancethe area, make them direct to the City Mayor online at:www.leicester.gov.uk/citymayor

The Jewel in Leicester's Crown

Developing theGolden Mile

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The Art of Mehndi &


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HistoryMehndi is the application of henna as a temporary form of skindecoration, usually on the hands and feet. The word mehndi is derivedfrom the Sanskrit word mendhika and is a ceremonial art form whichoriginated in ancient India.

Even before that it is likely that mehndi started out as a way to cooldown from the desert heat. The main medical property of the hennaplant are it’s cooling properties and this was discovered by the desertpeople of Rajasthan, Punjab and Gujarat. When hands and feet aredipped into a mud paste made with crushed henna leaves it helpsto cool the body.

Over time women discovered that one large dot on their palms hadthe same cooling effect as dying their palm. Eventually smaller dotsplaced around the central dot made popular the idea of creatingintricate artistic designs.

Henna23


ProcessHenna is usually applied on the skin using a plastic cone or paintbrush. The painted area is then wrapped with tissue, plastic ormedical tape to lock in body heat, creating a more intense colour onthe skin. The wrap is worn for three to six hours or sometimesovernight. When first removed the henna design is pale to darkorange in colour and gradually darkens through oxidation over thecourse of the following days. The final colour is reddish brown andcan last anywhere from one to three weeks.

Tradition & CelebrationHenna not only makes the body beautiful it is also a sacred blessingthat invokes good luck. Intricate patterns are typically applied to bridesbefore wedding ceremonies and it is often one of the most importantand joyous pre-wedding rituals for the bride. Often hidden within themehndi pattern the name or initials of the groom are applied. Insome parts of India the bridegroom is also painted and in Rajasthanfor example the grooms are given designs that are often as elaborateas those for brides.

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Leicester looks to regainits crown as Curry Capitalof BritainThe city of Leicester is looking to regain its crown as the Curry Capitalof Britain for 2011. Leicester won the grand title of ‘Curry Capital ofBritain’ in 2007 when for the first time in the competition’s seven-yearhistory, Leicester emerged triumphant against competition from otherUK cities including London, Birmingham, Cardiff, Bradford,Manchester, Sheffield, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool,Nottingham and Leeds.

Seventeen British cities have been invited to enter this year'scompetition, sponsored by Cobra Beer and part of National CurryWeek from 9-15 October 2011. Leicester are again entering thecompetition and following a public vote, co-ordinated by theLeicester Mercury, the four curry restaurants nominated to representLeicester are Dine India, Little India, Leeja Palace and Anjuna.

The restaurants will represent Leicester for this year's title and willbe judged against competition from other UK cities includingBirmingham, Bradford, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool,Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Northampton, Sheffield andWolverhampton. The teams will be visited by the judges ahead of theannouncement of the winning city on 1 November 2011.

Martin Peters, Chief Executive of Leicester Shire Promotions said: "Thereputation of a city's cuisine is a key factor in the visitor experience.Leicester's food offering reflects the diverse and cosmopolitan natureof the city and winning the Curry Capital of Britain title would furtherenhance this reputation."

To enter the debate online, visit www.goleicestershire.com/currycapital, tweet with the hashtag #leiccurrycapor join us on search for Leicester as Curry Capital of Britain

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The taste of Diwali

Diwali is a festival of sweets which are prepared for family and friends or bought from specialist food shops.On Diwali these are distributed to friends and neighbours, as well as the needy. The preparation, eating andgiving of sweets known as ‘mithai’, is a significant part of Diwali. The list of Diwali special sweets is exhaustive.Gulab Jamun, Gajar Ka Halwa, Besan Ke Ladoo, Karanji and Jalebis are the most commonly made sweets onthis occasion.

Other than sweets the savoury food eaten at Diwali depends upon culture and family traditions. Each family hasits own recipe of the cuisines they use year after year.

From north to south and east to west India, several mouth-watering delights are prepared in various mannersdepending upon the prevailing custom and taste of family members. Most eat vegetarian food during Diwaliand mixed vegetable curries made with as many varieties as possible are especially popular.

Diwali is synonymous with long, sumptuous feasts, the preparations forwhich begin several days in advance. It is a great time for families to cometogether, give each other gifts and feast on festive treats. Most of the foodsare prepared at home, with no expense spared and everybody buys thebest ingredients they can afford.

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Diwali Working PartyThe Diwali Working Party is chaired by Assistant City Mayor responsible forheritage and leisure, Councillor Piara Singh Clair. The group consists ofrepresentatives from local Councillors, Leicester Hindu Festival Council andLeicester City Council Festivals & Events Team.The group enables a working relationship toensure and deal with strategic decisions i.e.sponsorship, new projects, programming andmarketing.

The main priorities from the meetings are toguarantee that year on year the celebrations aremore spectacular, safe and enjoyable for allmembers of the community.

The Diwali Working Party wish you all a veryHappy Diwali and a Prosperous New Year.We hope you enjoy the city’s celebrations.


The Diwali Operations Group make decisions on the planning and managementof the Diwali celebrations, with the aim of delivering a safe event. They providehealth, safety and welfare advice for everyone working at and attending theevent.The Operations Group is chaired byMaggie Shutt, Festivals & EventsManager, Leicester City Council andcontains representatives including;Council Officers, Emergency Services,Leicester Hindu Festival Council andother relevant agencies.

The Diwali Operations Group wishyou all a very Happy and Safe Diwali.

Diwali Operations Group

“These two groups work together to deliver this major festival for the city"Councillor Piara Singh Clair, Chair of the Diwali Working Party

FESTIVALS&EVENTSLEICESTER

Pick up your guide to Leicester's major festivals and events from the Tourist Information Centre,Town Hall Square and from other venues throughout the city.

Tel: 0116 238 5082 www.leicester.gov.uk/festivals

/leicesterfestivals @leicesterfest

Shopping and visiting the Golden Mile is always amust do during Diwali and this year a visit to yourfavourite stores cannot be missed as retailers holdthe very first Golden Mile Shopping Festival, from12th to 27th October.

Shoppers who visit Belgrave and Melton Road duringthe festival will be treated to a whole range of excitingevents in store including cookery demonstrations, foodtasting, fashion demonstrations and lots more. Nowhereelse could you find such a massive concentration of fun,festivities, drink, dance, shopping, food, colour, fusionand culture along with a warm welcome for tourists orlocals. Plus Star TV will also be in town so that you canget up close and personal with some of your favouritestars.

If you’ve never ventured to the Golden Mile, this is the

year to do it or if you think you are an expert GoldenMile shopper – think again. The stores will be brimmingwith new and exciting products, and food will be eventastier as grocery stores and restaurants showcase newvarieties and different spices to create a fiesta fit for themaharaja’s. Expect to be taken back to the good olddays when you taste savoury and sweets recipes that dateback decades including old fashioned, favourite handmade recipes.

And if that’s not enough, raffle tickets will be given freeto all shoppers for every £25.00 spent and will be drawnon Sabras radio each day with the first prize being theholiday of a lifetime to Star City, Mumbai.

For further details of the Golden Mile Shopping Festivalvisit www.leicestersgoldenmile.com

The Golden MileShopping Festival 12th - 27th October

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Diwali Events &CelebrationsNavratriWednesday 28th September – Wednesday 5th OctoberVarious Venues

Nine nights of music and dance consisting of garba anddandiya raas. The festival is celebrated every year andsymbolises the triumph of good over evil. It is one of thegreatest Hindu festivals as communities get together fordances and nightly feasts of great variety and delicacy.

T: (0116) 266 8266 W: www.leicester.gov.uk

DasheraThursday 6th OctoberCossington Street Recreation Ground

Dashera is the culmination of the Hindu festival ofNavratri commemorating the story of the battle betweenLord Rama and King Ravana and the victory of goodover evil. Celebrations include the burning of a hugestructure representing King Ravana, children’s funfairrides, a live stage programme and a spectacularfirework display.

T: (0116) 238 5080 W: www.leicester.gov.uk/festivals

Diwali Crafts and FunTuesday 18th October 1.30pm – 3.00pmBelgrave Library

Free event for children aged 5 - 11 years

T: (0116) 299 5500 W: www.leicester.gov.uk/libraries

Diwali Stories and CraftsWednesday 19th October 2.00pm – 2.30pmFosse Library

Free event for children aged 5 – 9 years

T: (0116) 225 4995 W: www.leicester.gov.uk/libraries

Diwali Celebrations inLeicester Museums

Autumn & Diwali Railway DaySaturday 1st October11.00am - 4.30pmAbbey Pumping Station

Train rides, follow Autumn and Diwali trails around themuseum, draw an Autumn inspired picture of the ‘ThePumper’ and a chance to make a colourful box to fillwith Diwali treat. Refreshments available. Free /smallcharge for train rides.

Diwali Clay EventSunday 2nd October11.00am – 4.00pmNew Walk Museum & Art Gallery

Make your own clay candle holder and decorate it totake home. Drop-in event, suitable for all ages, £2.50for activities.

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Diwali Card MakingSunday 9th October11.00am – 4.00pmNew Walk Museum & Art Gallery

Make your own Diwali cards to take home. Drop-inevent, suitable for all ages, £2.50 for activities.

Diwali DaySunday 16th October1.00pm – 3.30pmBelgrave Hall Museum & Gardens

Come and celebrate the festival of light at Belgrave Hallbefore heading down to Belgrave Road to watch thelights being switched on. Activities include lanterns, claylamps and Happy Diwali cards. £2.50 for activities.

Diwali WorkshopFriday 21st October11.00am - 2.00pmNewarke Houses Museum & Gardens

Get involved in Diwali celebrations by taking part in ourworkshops. Make your own clay divas to take homewith a tea light to use on Diwali eve and design yourown Diwali cards. £2.50 for activities.

For more information please visitwww.leicester.gov.uk/museums

Curve Celebrates Diwali:A week of special events

History of the Saree ExhibitionWednesday 26th – Sunday 30th October

Plus a free interactive workshop, “How to Weara Saree” on Thursday 27th October 6.00pm.

Bachchan Haule HauleThursday 27th October 7.45pm

Haule Haule is a local grassroots comedy show,inspired by the great Bollywood movies. Thisfamily-friendly show is the perfect light-heartedrib-tickler for celebrating Diwali. Tickets: £8.00/£10.00

Indian Classical vs. ContemporaryFriday 28th October 7.45pm

An evening with some of the most talented professionaldancers from the UK. Tickets: £8.00/£12.00

Moving OnFriday 28th October 9.30am – 6.00pm

An exciting opportunity for South Asian dancepractitioners and organisations to come together tocelebrate, share and debate the challenges we face. Formore information and to book contact: Nilima Davi /Aashish Parmar T: 0116 255 2862 / [email protected]

CurveballFriday 28th October 5.30pm onwards

Free entertainment – Bollywood music dancing,DJ and Dhol Drummers.

AMAASSunday 30th October 7.45pm

A fusion of contemporary dance, South Asian danceand circus, with fire eating, stilts and more.Tickets: £8.00/ £12.00

For more information and to book ticketstelephone: (0116) 242 3595 or visitwww.curveonline.co.uk

For details of further events visitwww.leicester.gov.uk/festivals orwww.oneleicester.com

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Divaliby Kate Dicker5 years and above. Divali helps children to find out more aboutthis important festival of lights from the start of the Hindu New Yearto different Divali traditions. Readers are introduced to the storyof the Ramayana and different Hindu gods. They also learn aboutdivas and decorations, New Year rituals and special Divali foods.

Divaliby Cath Senker5 years and above. This is one in a series of books showinghow families celebrate different religious festivals in Britain.In this book Krishma tells us how her family celebrates the Hindufestival of Divali, both at home and at the local community centre.

Diwaliby Kate TorpieFor 4 - 8 year olds. The 'festival of lights' is one of the most popularfestivals in the Hindu calendar. Like most Hindu festivals, Diwalicelebrates the triumph of good over evil.

My Divaliby Monica Hughes3 years and above. The "Festivals" series introduces young readersto festivals from different religions and cultures. Using a case-studyapproach we follow a young child as they are involved in the festivallooking at when it takes place, who celebrates it and why it is celebrated.

DiwaliBooks forChildren

All of these books are available from Leicester Libraries.For further information, visit www.leicester.gov.uk/librariesor telephone 0116 252 7000


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Crime Safety & Fire AwarenessLeicestershire ConstabularyAdopting some simple crime prevention measures willensure that your Diwali celebrations are not ruined by theopportunist thief. If you are planning to attend the Diwalicelebrations, we would urge you to think carefully aboutkeeping your home and personal belongings safe.

If you are going out, make sure all windows and doors arelocked and that all jewellery, credit cards, cash or valuablesare kept out of sight. It is worth post coding all yourvaluable electrical equipment such as televisions, DVDsand computers and making sure your car keys are notkept close to the front or back door where they can beeasily stolen.

Leaving a radio or the television on, drawing the curtainsand switching on some lights, will make it look as thoughsomeone is in. This will act as a deterrent to opportunistthieves. You could also tell friends and neighbours you aregoing out and ask them to keep an eye on the house foryou.

People visiting the events should also make sure theirpersonal possessions are safe. Bags should be carried closeand zipped up and expensive jewellery should be coveredup.

Leicestershire Constabulary wish you a safeand Happy Diwali

Leicestershire Fire & Rescue ServiceAs we approach Diwali it is worth reminding everyone ofimportant facts:

Candles & Divas

We value and respect the lighting of divas and candles tocelebrate different religious festivals. For the safety of youand your family it is very important to take the followingprecautions:

� Always keep clothing and hair spray away from the flameof the diva/candle.

� Use only enough ghee to last the duration of the puja.

� Garlands should be safely secured and should not beallowed to drop onto the flame.

� Keep all decorations, photos and cards at a safe distancefrom the diva/candle flame.

� Supervise children at home and at the place of worshipwhere divas and candles are lit.

� Do not leave divas or candles unattended, think about usingelectric divas.

Fireworks

� Don't fool with fireworks - it's not worth the risk.

� Do not give sparklers to children under the age of 5.

� Stand well away from fireworks!

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Roads Information

Service No Location Bus Stand& Operator

2 (Kinchbus) St Margaret’s Bus Station Bay 3

5/5A (Arriva) Haymarket Bus Station HB

6 (Arriva) Haymarket Bus Station HA

22 (First) Haymarket Bus Station HC

25 (First) Haymarket Bus Station HE

26 (First) Haymarket Bus Station HF

54 (First) Charles Street CT

54 (Centrebus) Charles Street CT

126 St Margaret’s Bus Station Bay 8

Diwali Switch On CeremonySunday 16th October6.00pm until 9.30pmThe ceremony will begin at 6.00pmand will be attended by The City Major,Sir Peter Soulsby, Leicester HinduFestival Council, our generoussponsors O2 and other dignitaries. Thelights will be switched on at 7.30pmafter the evening’s programme ofentertainment. The firework displaywill take place on Cossington StreetRecreation Ground, starting at 6.00pmwith a cultural programme on stageand concluding with a spectacularfirework display at 8.00pm.

Diwali DayWednesday 26th October6.45pm until 9.30pmThere will be entertainment onCossington Street Recreation Ground,including a cultural programme ofevents on stage, starting at 6.45pmand concluding with a spectacularfireworks display at 8.30pm.

Road ClosuresSunday 16th OctoberBelgrave Road will be closed from5.30pm to 9.30pm. Belgrave flyoverwill be closed from 11.00am until9.30pm to enable the stage to be setup at the northern end of the flyover.

Wednesday 26th OctoberBelgrave Road, including the flyoverwill be closed to traffic from 6.00pmuntil 9.30pm.

Please note that on this day theEmergency Services and Leicester CityCouncil will need to maintain two clearroutes through the Belgrave area foremergency vehicles.

The routes are: Holden Street, RossWalk, MacDonald Road, HildyardRoad, Marjorie Street, Abbey ParkStreet, Harrison Road, Surrey Street,Doncaster Road, Cossington Street,Rothley Street, Rendell Road andPortsmouth Road. (See map)

Any vehicles parked on these roads,which will be marked on both sideswith ‘No Waiting’ cones will be towedaway. In addition any vehicle causingan obstruction on any of the sidestreets leading onto Belgrave Road willalso be towed away. In addition to afixed penalty, owners will be chargedto recover their vehicles. There is alsoa daily fee for keeping vehicles for upto 21 days. Vehicles will then be sold.

Health & SafetyIn the interests of public safety,members of the public are asked not tobring fireworks to the celebrations.Both Leicester City Council and theEmergency Services take the issue offireworks very seriously and the useof fireworks in a public area willnot be tolerated. Event stewardswill report anyone letting offfireworks to the police.

To receive information onthis years programme androad closures in large printor in Hindi, Gujarati orPunjabi, please

call 0116 252 7000.On both days, the public toilets onCossington Street and Belgrave Roadwill remain open until 9.30pm.

Car ParkingCar parking spaces in and around thearea will be limited during the event,therefore, visitors are positivelyencouraged to use public transportfrom the City Centre (see below).

There will be limited spacesavailable for disabled users, in theguest viewing area near the stage onboth days. Advanced booking of thesespaces is essential, call the Festivals& Events Team on 0116 238 5087.(For safety reasons spaces will not beavailable without prior booking).

24-hour NCP car park situatedin Abbey Street, which is approximatelya 3 minute walk from the bus stopsbelow and approximately a 15 minutewalk from the event.

24-hour parking is available at theHaymarket Centre and isapproximately a 15 minute walk fromthe event.

For more information about travelling by bus contact Traveline 0871 200 22 33. For National Rail Enquiries:08457 48 49 50. For further information about visiting the Diwali celebrations visit www.leicester.gov.uk/diwali

Finally, wishing you a happy and prosperous Diwali from all involved in the 2011 Diwali Celebrations

Diwali Guide 2011

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