The streets of Blacktown have been aglow with vibrant colours and festive spirit as the city celebrated Diwali through its annual Diwali Lights Competition. Residents across Blacktown City Council have embraced the ancient Hindu festival, decorating their homes with intricate lights, floral arrangements, and artistic creations, bringing the community together in a dazzling display of creativity and cultural pride.
Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. For many residents, it is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and neighbours, and the Diwali Lights Competition provides a platform for people to showcase their cultural traditions in the heart of the city.
Among the most prominent features of the displays were the beautiful rangoli artworks, which often took the form of the sacred lotus flower. These colourful, intricate designs, traditionally made from powders, petals, and other materials, were spotted adorning lawns and driveways across the city. The radiant patterns not only enhanced the visual appeal of the neighbourhoods but also served as a symbol of peace and prosperity.
Mayor’s Impressions of the Displays
Blacktown City Mayor, Brad Bunting, who had the difficult task of judging the competition, expressed his admiration for the effort and creativity that went into the decorations.
“Council’s Diwali Lights Competition is a real spectacle, and I have been impressed by the time and effort that has gone into the displays,” said Mayor Bunting. “The Blacktown City community is proudly multicultural, and we encourage people to express their heritage through traditional celebrations such as Diwali. I have learned a lot by talking to the residents behind the displays, and I know the competition has been a conversation-starter between neighbours and helped foster community connection.”
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
The competition has become an integral part of Blacktown’s cultural calendar since it was introduced in 2017. Councillors initially proposed the idea to recognise the most creative Diwali displays across the city, showcasing the strong cultural diversity of Blacktown. Today, this competition continues to grow in popularity, with more participants and greater community involvement each year.
Blacktown City is one of the most culturally diverse areas in Greater Sydney, and the Council’s leadership reflects this diversity, with five Councillors of subcontinental heritage actively involved in promoting initiatives like the Diwali Lights Competition. This inclusivity is mirrored in the widespread participation in the competition, with residents from all backgrounds coming together to share in the joy of Diwali.
Winners of the 2024 Diwali Lights Competition
The competition’s winners were announced with great excitement, with each recipient celebrating their achievements and the spirit of the festival. The winning display belonged to the Kumars of Hampton Crescent, Prospect, whose vibrant decorations and stunning rangoli designs wowed both judges and neighbours alike.
Second place was awarded to the Kumars of Wilcox Street, Marsden Park, while third place went to the Bhatnagars of Coobowie Drive, The Ponds. Additionally, Phantom Street at Nirimba Fields claimed the title of Best Street for its collective effort and captivating atmosphere.
A Celebration of Unity and Heritage
While the competition is about recognising the best displays, its true success lies in its ability to bring the community together. This year, residents were not just focused on creating beautiful lights; they were also engaging in meaningful conversations with their neighbours, learning about each other’s traditions, and sharing in the festive spirit.
For many, Diwali is not just a celebration of religious significance, but a way to connect with their heritage and celebrate the diversity that makes Blacktown such a vibrant and welcoming place to live.
As Blacktown City continues to embrace its multicultural identity, events like the Diwali Lights Competition are an important reminder of the power of cultural expression to foster connection and understanding among all residents.
