Diwali 2024: Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend to host annual fireworks display

Excitement is building for the return of an extravagant fireworks display held as part of a major religious and cultural event.

The Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend is set to host its annual Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas celebrations.

Festivities will take place on Friday, November 1 and will begin inside the temple at 10am with hymns (Kirtan) and tales and teachings of Sikh history (Katha) until 7:30pm.

Free vegetarian food prepared at the gurdwara’s langar kitchen will be served all day.

Then, at 8pm, the fireworks will start where they can be viewed from the gurdwara grounds or car park.

The huge display follows news that Gravesham council will not be putting on a fireworks event for a second year running after a sponsor failed to come forward.

The gurdwara’s celebrations are held annually for Diwali which falls on Thursday, October 31 this year, though some may be observing the festival on Friday.

The Hindu festival of light symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness – you can find out more about the auspicious holiday here.

Diwali also coincides with the Sikh festival of Bandi Chhor Diwas – a day which marks freedom and liberty.

It commemorates the release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Hargobind Sahib from prison, alongside 52 other princes with him, in 1619.

During this time The Mughals held innocent community leaders as political prisoners against their wishes and were jailed by force without trial.

Upon his release, Guru Hargobind came back to Amristar, near Diwali, and the whole city was lit up for his return.

For Sikhs the story symbolises when right prevailed over wrong.

The Guru Nanak Darbar committee says everyone is invited to come and join in the celebrations on Friday.

A spokesperson added: “Fireworks ash may fall on any cars in the rear car park.

“Please consider using nearby car parks such as Lord Street and walk to the Gurdwara Sahib.”

Traffic headed into Trinity Road will be restricted for those not requiring access to properties there.

This will be from 6.30pm until the fireworks are finished and the area is clear, which should be at about 8.30pm.

There is also a road closure in the junction of Milton Road and Wellington Street so drivers will have to go round the one way system to access the gurdwara.