Contest shines light on Diwali

Published on 06 October 2020

Homes and businesses across Blacktown City are about to be lit up.

Nominations have now opened for this year’s Blacktown City's Diwali Lights Competition.

The ancient Hindu festival of Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness, with observers around the world lighting lamps and candles in and around homes and temples. 

These lights are said to help the goddess Lakshmi - goddess of wealth - find her way to homes and businesses.

Blacktown City’s annual Diwali Lights Competition invites residents to celebrate their culture by decorating their homes.    

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “This is a wonderful cultural event that lights up our streets and homes across the City.

“Blacktown City is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Australia and is home to more than 83,000 people of Indian descent.

“In addition to prizes for the best individual properties, we have a special category where we recognise the City’s ‘Best Street’. The title acknowledges neighbours who come together in the spirit of Diwali to create a festive and culture-filled atmosphere in the street they each call home.”

To be eligible for the title of Best Street, you must have a minimum of 3 decorated properties entered in the same street.

$2500 in cash prizes is available for the best decorated properties across Blacktown City’s 5 Wards.

Preliminary judging and photographing of entries will take place from Monday 9 November to Thursday 12 November with the final round of judging taking place on Sunday 15 November. 

The competition is organised by Blacktown City Council in association with Indian Link Media Group to celebrate the annual Diwali Festival. 

Photo: The Sadhu family’s home in Bungarribee, last year’s winner.

For more information and entry details go to: https://www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Community/Awards-scholarships-and-competitions/Diwali-Lights-Competition