Worshippers from a wide range of faiths united to celebrate the annual Diwali festival last weekend.

Members of the Shri Nathji Sanatan Temple in Whipps Cross Road, Leytonstone, hosted the celebrations on Saturday October 14.

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The five day festival of lights which is marked by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists around the world, celebrates new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil.

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The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning “rows of lighted lamps" and is celebrated with firework displays and small oil lamps called ‘diyas’.

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Mayor of Waltham Forest Cllr Yemi Osho and representatives from the Waltham Forest Faith Communities Forum joined in on the festivities.

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This year Diwali falls on Thusday, October 19.