Langley: On Saturday, October 26, Muriel Arnason Library and the Township of Langley celebrated their 16th annual Diwali, the Festival of Lights.  Around 600 people participated in this colorful event and enjoyed Henna, crafts, face painting, Indian music, Native and Punjabi folk dance Bhangra, entering the draw, and food in a festive atmosphere. Former MP John Aldag, Township of Langley Mayor Jack Froese, Councillor Petrina Arnason, Councillor Bob Long, City of Langley Councillor Gayle Martin, TOL Director Peter Tulumello, and FVRL’s Director Heather Scoular were among those who enjoyed the celebrations.

The Diwali celebration offered local residents an opportunity to enjoy the diversity of Canada through a variety of multicultural activities. Muriel Arnason Library was filled with people of all ages during the afternoon’s festivities. A very popular Native Indian dancer Shyama Priya entertained the people with her marvelous native dances, and two young dancers Eakam Dhami and Arjun Panesar from the Vancity Dance performed Punjabi folk dance Bhangra. The participants enjoyed learning a few Native dance and Bhangra steps. Henna artist Dimple Rayat did a fabulous job for applying Henna, and  Janet Megahi ‘Madam Butterfly’ was amazing in face painting. Everyone enjoyed multicultural food including Samosas, Pakoras, different types of cookies, juices, and coffee. The prize draws were very popular.

At the end of the program, Community Librarian – Supervisor Dr. Sarwan Singh Randhawa thanked the audience, performers, volunteers, and the media.