SuNrit Culture Group is holding a festive show on the story of Diwali, featuring traditional Indian theatre, dance and music this Saturday at the Millennium Gallery. 

Based in the east of Sheffield, this voluntary community group focuses on sharing Southeast Asian arts, culture, and heritage through workshops and events to foster community engagement.

Charu Asthana, 45, a trained classical dancer from SuNrit Culture Group, said: “My teachers taught me the significance of these celebrations, and when I participate in Diwali, it feels like I’m giving back to them what they have taught me.”

In the meantime, SuNrit Culture Group will celebrate the start of Diwali today with the local community by having a proper meal, studying scriptures, and using firecrackers.

Asthana said: “It’s a time which reminds me of my entire childhood and my loved ones. This time brings all the teachings, love, and connection I feel with my community, family, and friends.”

Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights, symbolising the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”. Diwali is a significant day for celebration and bringing the community together. 

The date is determined by the position of the moon, and the celebrations can take place over five or six days.

Regarding preserving this heritage for the younger generation, Ms Asthana said: “It’s automatic. They see how much happiness I’m getting from it. They think maybe if I do, I’ll also be happy. If you live honestly and genuinely, I think the younger generation usually will get it.

“I just wish everybody a very happy, healthy, and prosperous season in Diwali. Every festival is beautiful. Every festival is beautiful and illustrates how diverse divinity can be. The variety in our celebrations is truly wonderful and should be appreciated.”