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Divali Nagar is back with a bang come October 15.
Surujdeo Mangaroo, the public relations officer of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) and Independent Senator Deoroop Teemal, the NCIC’s second VP, gave Guardian Media some insight as to what will take place.
Mangaroo said, “Divali Nagar which began way back in 1986, has now become a national, and probably, an international institution in terms of its total presentation, glamour, originality and content.
↓FILE: Members of the Shiva Shakti Dance Company perform at the Divali Nagar
SHASTRI BOODAN
“The year 2022 has given us all the much-longed-for opportunity to stage a full-fledged Divali Nagar once again. Continuing in the trend of Divali Nagars held in 2018 and 2019 when the themes were Hindu Sant (Hindu Saints), and Hindu Granth (Hindu Sacred Books), the NCIC has chosen Hindu Panth (Hindu Denominations) as its theme for the year 2022.”
Mangaroo said Divali Nagar—a nine day event that precedes Divali each year and will close on Sunday, October 23.
Mangaroo said most likely there would be no fireworks since the NCIC intends to avoid the level of noise pollution created by the explosive devices. He said there would be new booths; as some traditional business operations that displayed their goods and services would no longer be there.
FILE: Susan Mohip, left, and her daughter Sunanda Mohip perform at the Divali Nagar
SHASTRI9 BOODAN
He said the NCIC is also mindful to play its role in controlling the spread of COVID-19, adding patrons would be advised to voluntarily wear masks. The NCIC would also be placing hand sanitisation stations throughout the venue.
Mangaroo said the event would be free to the public, “There would be no charge at all.” He said 2022’s show would feature only local artistes, “We have lots of talent in this country.”
Senator Teemal said the organisation raises most of its funds from businesses who rent booths and sponsorship. Senator Teemal said the NCIC has applied to the State for funding.