On Saturday night, I had the privilege of participating in the celebration of Diwali in Palmerston North. Diwali is the most significant festival of the Hindu year and symbolises the victory of good over evil, while also marking the start of the Indian New Year. The Diwali festival (also known as the Festival of Lights) is celebrated over five days at the end of the Hindu month of Ashwayuja. Fresh flowers, exchanges of gifts, new clothes, meeting with friends and family, and feasting are all part of the colourful festival. Diwali is celebrated by both Hindu and Sikh religions and this year some 400 people gathered together to celebrate in Palmerston North. We were treated to an extravaganza of dancing and music, followed by a wonderful feast.