By Balwant Sanghera
India Cultural Centre of Canada Gurdwara Nanak Niwas in Richmond celebrated Diwali and Bandi Chhore Divas on Wednesday, November 7 with a great deal of enthusiasm. From early morning, a large number of volunteers got busy getting ready for the late afternoon/evening celebration. The ladies had a large contingent getting langar ready for the Sangat. For most of the morning and afternoon people kept drifting in to pay their obeisance at the Gurdwara. . By early evening the entire Gurdwara was overflowing with devotees. The attendees were enjoying themselves with various sweets, fruits delicacies as well as a delicious vegetarian langar. They were very generous with their donations to the Gurdwara.
A new feature for this special occasion this year was the information booth set up by the Richmond Public Library .Community Services Librarian Millicent Mabi did an excellent job in providing information about the library services in Richmond. She invited members of the community to utilize the free services offered by Richmond Public Library at its various branches in Richmond.In addition to its main branch at Minoru and Granville, Richmond Public Library has been serving the public at its other outlets in Steveston, Ironwood Plaza and Cambie.
As the devotees grew in numbers, the Gianis (Priests), led by Giani Tarlochan Singh began their melodious and heartwarmingkirtanwhich continued till the conclusion of the celebration. At one point the Diwan Hall and the Langar Hall were overflowing with the devotees including children, parents and grandparents. It was great to see Richmond’s police chief Superintendent Will Ng and inspector Sunny Parmar to join us in this celebration. The festivities concluded with a fabulous fireworks handled by professionals and assisted by Richmond’s Fire and Rescue team. The children and adults alike enjoyed the fireworks displays. On the whole, it was a very enjoyable celebration of Diwali and Bandi Chhore Divas.
On behalf of the management committee, Gurdwara president BalbirSingh Jawanda expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to the Sangat, Richmond Fire and Rescue Team, Richmond RCMP and the volunteers for making this special occasion a very enjoyable and peaceful celebration.
