Traditional Punjabi Dance a Part of Sikh Diwali Celebration

October 11, 2003

Source: Manukau Courier

http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,2687669a11,00.html

On October 11, 2003 the Manukau Courier reported on Diwali celebrations in New Zealand, highlighting the Sikh community's commemoration of the festival: "Sukhjot Singh, who will perform the Bhangra [a traditional Punjabi men's dance celebrating the Sikh religion], says Diwali is also significant for Sikhs [not just Hindus]. 'It symbolises the time when Hargobindji, the sixth prophet, returned from capture. We celebrate because that was the day he was freed and everything was lit up,' Mr Singh, 18, says. He has been involved in Bhangra for more than 10 years and says Sunday's performance marks hours of practice. Seeing different performances will help other New Zealanders understand the diversity of Indian culture, he says."