By CASEY NEILL
BRIGHT lights shone from Aatish Issur’s Dandenong home as his family celebrated Diwali.
The Festival of Lights is a time when Hindu people around the world join with family, friends and community and highlight the Hindu values of compassion, selflessness, harmony, tolerance and respect.
“We cook different kinds of cakes and give it to family friends, neighbours,” Mr Issur said.
It took him three days to decorate his home with lamps, candles and lights – which double as Christmas decorations.
“When we put it up for Diwali we leave it up for Christmas,” he said.
About 20 people joined him for dinner on Wednesday 11 November.
“We are the only Hindus around, so our Christian neighbours come around to celebrate with us,” he said.
“Everybody stays until after midnight. All the lights should remain on until the following day.”
Dandenong Market visitors on 15 November enjoyed traditional sword dancing, a Rangoli artist, festive face painting, turban tying and henna hand art.
Bollydazzlers performed and Bhavesh Mahant from Curry and Chaat Corner joined chef Russell Bald in The Kitchen.
Dandenong Plaza got shoppers into the Diwali spirit on 7 November with Bollywood dance performances, free henna art and craft workshop for kids.
