Lord Surya certainly looked favourably upon the organisers of the recent Blacktown Diwali Mela.
On a bright, warm spring day, up to 10,000 people gathered at Blacktown Showgrounds to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
For organiser Bikram Cheema, the main highlights of the day included the on stage dance performances and evening fireworks.
“In the dance competition, we had Road to Bollywood, Virasat Folk Academy and Meenaxi Dance Group all on stage,” he told Indian Link. “They were really excellent.”
Another outstanding performance came from Samparana Dance School, said Cheema.
The onstage entertainment also featured classic Bharatnatyam, Bhangra, some light skits and a comedy act, all the way from India. Indeed, the organising team provided an opportunity for an array of local talent to perform, whether they are singers, dancers, or entertainers.
A mixed crowd of Indian Australians and mainstream Aussies all mingled amidst the usual food and merchandise stalls. The children’s rides and face painting kept the little ones entertained while big kids enjoyed the DJs and mehndi stalls.
Local Blacktown Councillor Moninder Singh was among those enjoying the entertainment, as was Daniel Mookhey MLC.
The beautiful weather, masti atmosphere and delicious treats made for a great day out.
“We’re hoping to come back even bigger and better next year,” Cheema said.
Well done to the entire Blacktown Festival team, Bikram Cheema, Nitin Madan, Ashish Kumar, Indu Takher and Inderpal Kahlon.