KOCHI: Diwali is round the corner and it’s time for celebrations. In Kerala it is not as grand as it is in other states. But from this year onwards as per the State Government’s decision, the Kochi Corporation and district administration are planning to celebrate it grandly, said District Collector Sheik Pareeth during a press conference held at his camp office on Monday. Gujarati Mahajan and textile centre Chennai Silks are also joining in organising the festivities.The celebrations titled Deepotsav will be flagged off on October 26 at Gujarati School, Mattanchery, at 6 pm.At least thousand people will light the aarthi to relive the victory of good over evil. Legend has it that people lit lamps, offered pooja, distributed sweets and burst crackers with festive fervour to celebrate the return of Lord Rama after his 14 years of exile in the forests, and his victory over Ravana.Cultural programmes and food are the highlight of the festival in which one can get to see the rich culture of Gujarat, of course with a mix of Kerala traditions. Gujaratis will be dressed in traditional outfits. Contests will be held in Aarthi, dandiya, garba, deep dance, folk dance, rangoli and arthi decoration.A variety of delicacies will be served in eight food stalls where one can get to taste the culinary specialities of Gujarat. Fireworks will add colour to the show. Safety measures will be taken.Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution K V Thomas, Food and Civil Supplies Minister T M Jacob, Works Minister Ebrahim Kunju and Excise Minister K Babu, Mayor Tony Chammany, MLAs Dominic Presentation, S Sarma, V D Satheesan, Hibi Eden, Benny Behanan and Anwar Sadath will participate in different sessions.The valedictory ceremony will be held on October 29. Organising committee chairman T K Ashraf, general convener, G P Goyal, coordinator Muttom Abdulla, conveners Vishwanath Agarwal, Malay R Chadaria and Chetan D Shah attended the conference.
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