Our colleagues at Asian community broadcasters such as Lyca Radio, Radio XL Birmingham and Radio Fever Leeds, to name but a few, have reminded us that for millions of Sikh and Hindu people the world over, Sunday 8th November is the Festival of Light, Diwali. It is associated with the spiritual victory or triumph of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. LGBTQIA Sikhs and Hindus have sent out their greetings for this most auspicious of seasonal events, which in a secular context mark part of the "Winter Festive Season" running from Hallowe'en to Orthodox Christmas in early January. We have linked to the key international Sikh and Hindu LGBTQIA groups on our website should you wish to research the rich queer heritage of the Indian subcontinent for yourself. The website Time and Date reports " Many homes that celebrate Diwali have assorted sweets, savories and Diwali herbs. Various lights, candles and sparklers are lit inside and outside homes. Many people wear their finest clothes to celebrate Diwali. Many women wearing jewelry and silk outfits and some have mehendi, which is a temporary henna decoration, on their palms. Many Indian businesses see Diwali as a day to start the new financial year because of Diwali’s ties with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.... Diwali is not a bank holiday in the United Kingdom but it is celebrated in many towns and cities such as Belfast, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leicester, and London. There may be traffic congestion and parking places may be full in areas where events are held to celebrate Diwali. Some Indian businesses may close early on Diwali."

Happy Diwali from the ShoutOut Team to All our Indian listeners and all who follow Sikhism or Hinduism.

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