Dr Magesan said the well-known Hindu festival was not only celebrated in India, but also in Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Africa, Fiji and many other countries.
"In an increasingly multi-cultural New Zealand, not only Hindus from all over the world, but all communities participate in events like Deepawali and share their cultures with each other,'' he said.
Dr Magesan, who is also general secretary of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, said the festival was increasingly becoming a much anticipated event on the Rotorua events calendar.
"Each year an increasing number of community organisations have supported the Rotorua Deepawali Festival in the spirit of understanding and mutual respect, thereby developing and strengthening intercultural bonds.''
This year's event is also a double celebration after the Hindu Council of New Zealand was granted special consultative status as a non-governmental organisation by the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
Dr Magesan said an official function would be held before a Deepawali cultural programme to honour all the volunteers, supporters, performers, sponsors, guests and participants who have contributed to the Hindu Council's success.
"This year, the Hindu Council of New Zealand is raising funds from the Hindu community to organise the festival and the fireworks instead of asking for public funding.''
Dance schools from different cities will perform, in addition to Rotorua-based performers.
The Rotorua Deepawali Festival will be on Saturday, October 6 in the Rotorua Convention Centre from 7.30pm. The fire works will be outside near the Lakefront from 9.15pm. Volunteers to help run the festival are also being called for.
If you are interested in attending the free cultural show, please email either rotorua. deepawali@gmail.com or hindu.nz@gmail.com to reserve your place.
For more information visit www.rotoruadeepawali.org.
