Diwali to be celebrated for first time at Monas

The Indian community in Jakarta will celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, at the National Monument (Monas) Park in Central Jakarta on Saturday starting from 6:30 p.m.

Diwali -- derived from Sanskrit word deepavali, "deepa" meaning "light" and "avali" meaning "rows" -- is one of the most celebrated festivals not only in India but also in other countries, including Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

The event, celebrated on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, is meant to lead mankind to truth and illumination.

Organizer Pranab Sengupta said on Friday that the festival, the first ever to be staged here, would introduce the festival to the public.

"All Jakartans are very welcome to attend this event. So far, Diwali has only been known by Indians in the city. By holding the event, we want the public to learn about our culture," he said.

Performances of classical Indian songs and dances, and modern songs from Bollywood movies will highlight the celebration. It will climax with fireworks.

Sengupta said the reason for performing scenes from Bollywood films was because they were popular among Indonesians.

Diwali, which also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year, also commemorates the homecoming of Rama, his wife Sita, his brother Laxmana and loyal aide Hanuman from 14 years in exile, and the killing of king demon Ravana, as depicted in the Ramayana epic.

The festival is also held to welcome Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. -- JP