October sees Diwali, the festival of lights, taking place all over the world.
The Ireland India Council held a special celebration in City Hall, bringing together members of the Indian community and representatives of Ireland to mark the festival and to shine a light on the cultural and historical links between Ireland and India. In attendance was Minister of State in the Department of Finance Sean Fleming, Councillor Donna Cooney representing the Lord Mayor of Dublin and members of Oireachtas.
Addressing attendees, Councillor Donna Cooney celebrated Ireland and India's strong historical and cultural bond. She said: "It's estimated that about 45,000 Indians or persons of Indian origins live in Ireland. Most of these people work in healthcare, information technology, engineering and management positions.
Read more: What is Diwali and what events are happening in Dublin to mark the festival of lights
"Diversity in culture enriches each of us. Diversity in humanity is very important.
"Celebrations like this help us to learn about each other's cultures, traditions and values. Diwali celebrates prosperity, peace, happiness, joy and hope for the future."
India and Ireland's unique relationship was well-documented during the event at City Hall, with things like Padraig Pearse's love for the philosophies of India and the influence the Irish constitution had on that of India after generations of British rule.
"In the current political and economic environment, we as a city and country must continue to enhance economic, social, educational and cultural links with countries like India. Both Ireland and India have had profound effects on each other," she added.
The event also included a cultural display including traditional Indian dancing and singing, before both Irish and Indian attendees joined in for a sing-song of Molly Malone led by Councillor Cooney.
Diwali is celebrated in India and around the world every year. In most of India, Diwali consists of a five-day celebration that peaks on the third day. This year, those five days are October 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26, although some Diwali events are taking place outside of those dates.
Diwali is also an official holiday in India, Fiji, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname and other nations. Traditionally, Diwali is marked with plenty of light and colour, with people across India and the world illuminating their homes, wearing their finest clothes and lighting plenty of candles and clay lamps to brighten the night sky.
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