Diwali on the Hill was organised by Conservative Party Member of Parliament Mr Deepak Obhrai, in an impressive function held in the historical John F. Macdonald building opposite to the Canadian Parliament on 30 October, 2018. Various Hindu temples situated in the Canadian cities of Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary, Montreal, Scarborough, Brampton, Mississauga and several Indian Associations came together for this annual celebrations being done for the last 18 years by Mr. Obhrai who is the longest serving Conservative MP. The event was attended by more than 500 people.

The chair of the organising committee, Mr. Shiv Bhasker, emceed the programme. Hindu Priest Pandit Ravindra Narayan Pandey facilitated lighting of the lamp and Laxmi Pooja. High Commissioner of India, Mr Vikas Swarup, MP Mr Chandra Arya, MP & Leader of Government in the House of Commons Ms Bardish Chagger and MP and Leader of Green Party Elizabeth May spoke on the event. A large number of MPs across several political parties attended the event. There were several cultural performances of bollywood dance, Kuttiyattam and programme concluded with traditional Rajasthani folk dance Bhavai. A reception over Indian delicacies followed.

Besides High Commissioner of India and the Members of Parliament, High Commissioners/ Ambassadors of a number of South Asian countries and other members of diplomatic community graced the occasion.

The Festival of Lights was enjoyed by all the guests that was visible in the enthusiasm spreading around.

Ottawa

31 October 2018