Diwali is all about food and dance, which will be in plenty in Munyonyo
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Thousands of Indians and partners from around the world are set to converge at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Sunday October 19, for the annual Diwali Food Festival, officials have said.
Paresh Mehta, the chairman of the Indian Association Uganda said that the occasion to be celebrated under the theme: “Unity in Diversity,” will showcase the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It is expected to bring together all Indian sects from within and outside Uganda, all together totaling to over 6,000 people.
“We will showcase India’s varied regional delicacies, cultural and traditional antics, in a move to promote the unity, diversity and heritage of members of the Indian community,” he said in an interview yesterday.
Ruparelia Group onboard
Mehta said that the occasion, to be held in partnership with the High Commission of India and the Ruparelia Group, will transcend religion and geography, with an intention of offering a message of hope, renewal and togetherness.
“We have sent invitations to all embassies in Uganda and are expecting ambassadors and dignitaries to attend and make this a time to remember. They will join hands with us to uphold things that lead to social harmony and fosters a sense of belonging,” he said.
Mr Pareth Mehta
Said Mehta: The festival will bring together communities for a day of food, music, and cultural celebration, at the resort’s scenic lakeside.
This Festival of Lights, symbolises the victory of light over darkness, and good over evil.”
He further said that this year’s festival activities begin with registered groups receiving tents, tables, and chairs, to prepare and serve 2–3 authentic dishes from their heritage.
Indian delicacies
“Visitors can expect a mouth-watering spread of Indian delicacies—spiced curries, fragrant rice dishes, and sweet favourites such as jalebi and gulab jamun,” he said, adding that cooking will be done on-site using gas stoves, while beverages like water and soft drinks will be managed centrally.
Beyond the food, the festival will feature an exciting entertainment program, including- a children’s play area with games, cultural performances, live performers, fireworks display at dusk, as well as traditional decorations and attire to brighten up the stalls.
Stalls will display dish names and prices for clear view, and organisers have put hygiene measures in place, including waste bins and food safety standards, to keep the environment clean and safe, according to officials.
Mehta said that the festival is also set to encourage their community to always be righteous and nurture the younger and future generations to uphold the culture of good behavor, which should be carried to future generations.
Cultural performers to showcase
He said that they have so far registered more than a hundred food stalls and over 15 cultural performers from around Indian regions.
“We will ensure that all the diaspora communities are represented. The festival is open to Ugandan and international communities, who will be able to witness Indian cultural performances and delicacies.
Diwali is an Indian festival that is celebrated annually in all corners of the world including Africa, Americas and Europe. The festival also has several specific themes, such as the celebration of the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity.
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