Community
Invercargill came alive with vibrant colours, dance, and community spirit as Diwali 2025 lit up ILT Stadium in one of the city’s most lively cultural celebrations to date. Organised by the Indian Community Southland Inc. (Reg. Charity), the event ran from 11am to 5pm and drew record crowds from across the Southland region.
This year’s celebration featured standout performances from Shivam Dance Academy, Wellington, whose energetic routines were a major highlight. The performances were led by Vice President Ramya Adiseshan, supported by volunteers Rani Fernandez and Arjun Suresh. Participants from various cultural backgrounds and outside Invercargill added a strong multicultural flavour to the event.
The day’s success was recognised by the presence of local dignitaries including Mayor Tom Campbell and MP Penny Simmonds. Representatives from SIT, ILT, CTS, Great South, and the Ministry for Ethnic Communities also attended and expressed their support for the well-run and inclusive celebration. Treasurer Naren Varma and Arick John handled promotion and marketing, ensuring a broad turnout, while Vinay Sood and Bhuvnesh Sharma greeted guests as part of the welcome team.
Event sponsorship was led by Avinash Vargees from Pride Property, whose contribution played a key role in making the celebration possible. The Indian Community Southland thanked all sponsors, partners, volunteers, and stallholders who came together to create an engaging and festive experience.
Volunteer coordination was handled smoothly by Kailash Pandey, with help from Ashlee Davis, while Kamla Tubman and Chetan Kumar created colourful decorations that gave the stadium a vibrant Diwali atmosphere. President Prashant Chaddha oversaw the event, ensuring all teams worked in harmony to deliver a memorable day.
Attendees and special guests gave glowing feedback, noting the warm hospitality, diverse entertainment, and engaging stalls. Many performers and stallholders have already expressed interest in returning next year, showing the growing popularity of the event.
More than just a festival of lights, Diwali 2025 in Invercargill served as a celebration of culture, community, and connection — bringing people together through shared joy and vibrant traditions.
