A local business association has hosted a reception for civic dignitaries, local businesses and community leaders to discuss the future of Leicester’s Diwali celebrations.
The event was organised by the Belgrave Business Association, Leicester Hindu Festival Council and local ward councillors in response to the financial pressures faced by Leicester City Council and the rising cost of the city’s Diwali celebrations.
The reception included speeches from Lord Mayor Cllr Bhupen Dave, City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby, Belgrave ward councillor Jaiantilal Gopal, and President of the Ramgarhia Board Leicester, Inderjeet Singh Panesar. Speeches were also made by the representatives of the Belgrave Business Association and Leicester Hindu Festival Council.
Held at the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre, the event gave guests the opportunity to network with sponsors, business leaders, and community figures, and to share insights into Leicester’s Diwali heritage, and its economic and cultural impact on the city.
Organisers hope the event will help kickstart a renewed commitment from the local community to embrace change and work collaboratively to create a sustainable future for the city’s Diwali celebrations.
Karan Modha, from the Belgrave Business Association, said: “From exploring eco-friendly decoration options to collaborating with local businesses for sponsorship, there are countless opportunities for us to support and enhance our beloved festival. It is essential that we all play a role in ensuring the success of Diwali for years to come. By actively participating in the planning and execution of the festival, we can each contribute to its growth and ensure that it remains a cornerstone of our community for generations.”
Anyone who wants to learn more about ways to support future Diwali festival can contact Hetal Tank at Belgrave Business Association at boa.leic@gmail.com
