Diwali

The Indian Festival of Lights season, Diwali, started Oct. 19. The Tri-State India Association has tickets on sale now for its celebration of Diwali, which is celebrated by more than 800 million people across the globe, including seven out of 10 Indian Americans in the U.S.

The local celebration is set for Saturday, Nov. 11, at Cabell Midland High School, 2300 U.S. 60 in Ona. The evening begins with a silent auction and appetizers from 5 to 6 p.m. At 6 p.m. there will be a free program of dance and music open to the public. The program will be followed by a dinner. Tickets are $20, $15 for students (ages 7 and above). If the event does not sell out, tickets can be purchased at the door. To buy tickets in advance, contact Kejal Doshi at kejaladoshi@gmail.com.

The Tri-State Indian Association has hosted Diwali in the area for more than 30 years, and the celebration draws more than 500 people each year. Diwali, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, symbolizes new beginnings after good triumphs over evil and light over darkness, which is symbolic of the removal of ignorance and the spread of knowledge.

For more information on the Tri-State Indian Association, visit www.tsiaonline.com.