HCM CITY — The Diwali Fest 2017, the annual Indian light festival, is expected to attract more than 1,200 people in HCM City on October 14, according to the Indian Business Chamber in Việt Nam (Incham).

The event will take place at the GEM Centre at 8 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm Street in District 1 from 5:30pm until late.

Attending the event will be expats and Vietnamese, including officials from government departments, foreign missions, the Indian Embassy, the Consulate General of India and corporations and businesses.         

Diwali, known as The Festival of Lights, signifies triumph of goodness over evil, light over darkness, the spirit of kindness, and the joy of sharing.

It is an ancient Hindu festival and annually celebrated not only in India but all over the world.

The preparations for Diwali start weeks before the festival date and the rituals extend over a five-day period.

On this occasion, people usually light lamps and candles inside and outside their homes, pray for wealth and prosperity, display fireworks, and exchange gifts.

According to Incham, Diwali Fest 2017 will live up to the true spirit of the event.

Bollywood singer Ravi Shukla, the winner of the India Star Voice contest in its second season, and artist Purva Mantri will appear during the festival this year.

Dilbagh Singh, Incham’s chairman, said the festival would offer an authentic experience of India for guests.

“It will make you feel that you are on a festival site in India,” he said.

The festival will feature the Indian cuisine, traditional dancing and musical performances, and a free flow of drinks.

Ticket prices are VNĐ900,000 (US$40) for adults and VNĐ400,000($18) for children aged 4-12, and free for children under four.  

For more information about the event and ticket purchases, contact the Incham Office in HCM City.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to charity. — VNS