Diwali, the ‘festival of lights’, is a celebration that usually lasts for five days. In Australia, over one million Hindus, Jains, Buddhists and Sikhs celebrate versions of the festival, which include Tihar and Bandi Chhor Diwas.

Beginning October 20 the festival signifies the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over darkness. It is also a time for giving thanks and offering prayers for good health and prosperity. SBS Audio’s Diwali project is taking this opportunity to connect deeply with South Asian communities, especially in regional centres, with celebrations to be held at Mildura, Alice Springs, Queanbeyan, Gold Coast and Darwin, in addition to Sydney, Melbourne and Hobart.

Until 5pm today SBS Audio will be live at Cairns Central Shopping Centre with Gujarati, Sinhala, Tamil, Malayalam, Nepali, Bangla, Punjabi and Hindi teams going live to air from 9 am to 5pm.

Further podcasts, articles, videos and recipes to celebrate and learn about the Festival of Lights can be found here: www.sbs.com.au/diwali