TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The India Taipei Association (ITA) and the Kaohsiung City Government will host this year’s Diwali Festival at Weiwuying Metropolitan Park on Saturday (Oct. 26).

According to the ITA, this will be the first time the Hindu festival of lights is celebrated in Kaohsiung. The event will feature Indian music, dance, food, and a five-minute fireworks display symbolizing light and blessings.

Diwali is one of India's most significant festivals, marking the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Similar to Taiwan's Lunar New Year, the date of Diwali changes each year according to the Hindu calendar, with this year’s festival falling on Oct. 31.

During Diwali, Indian households light oil lamps to welcome hope and happiness. It is a time for family reunions, blessings, and exchanging gifts, serving as a reminder to uphold good deeds and promote unity. Approximately one billion people celebrate the festival globally each year.

The ITA and the Kaohsiung City Government aim to strengthen cultural ties and enhance people-to-people exchanges between India and Kaohsiung in the realms of art, culture, and business through this large-scale celebration.