Diwali in Leicester

Every autumn, the streets of Leicester, a city in the English Midlands, glow with thousands of coloured lights. The reason is Diwali, the Hindu 'festival of lights', which is also celebrated by Sikhs and Jains. Leicester's celebrations are among the largest anywhere outside India, and every year they attract tens of thousands of visitors.

Diwali usually takes place in October or November, and the date changes each year because it follows the lunar calendar. The festival lasts five days and celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

In Leicester, the festivities begin with the switch-on of the lights along Belgrave Road, known locally as the Golden Mile because of its many jewellery shops. Crowds gather to watch music and dance performances before the lights are turned on. About two weeks later, on Diwali night itself, there is a spectacular fireworks display.

At home, families clean and decorate their houses. They light diyas, and many people draw colourful patterns called rangoli on the floor near the entrance to welcome guests. People wear new clothes, visit friends and relatives, and exchange boxes of sweets.

For many people in Leicester, Diwali is not only a religious festival but also a celebration of the city's diverse community. People of all backgrounds come to enjoy the food, the music and the atmosphere. As one visitor put it, 'It feels like the whole city is lit up with happiness.'