The festival of lights is one of the largest celebrations in Indian culture. It is held annually, this year on October 30, but was observed early by the Queanbeyan Multicultural Centre for all to enjoy.

Organiser Sethu Kannan, a case worker at the centre, said it was a huge success.

”It was the first Indian celebration at the centre, and something that we did to bring everyone together,” Ms Kannan said.

“It was open to all people, not just Indians, so we had people from Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Fiji, Iran, Egypt, Indonesia Chile, Serbia and Russia.”

While organisers were expecting about 70 people to attend, they ended up with over 100.

“We have a big Indian community in Queanbeyan.

“We never expected [that many people], it was the biggest party we have ever hosted here in the 40 years history,” Ms Kannan said.

She said one of the best parts was that everybody brought a plate of Indian food to share, so there was no shortage of dinner.

Ms Kannan said Diwali was all about the light, but on the night there was music and dancing.

“It was nice.

“We welcome everyone who came, and I think it was just the beginning of many celebrations to come at the centre.”