London’s Pakistani mayor Sadiq Khan to launch Diwali celebration from Sunday at the Trafalgar square which will feature a mix of music, dance and live performances to mark the festival with people of all backgrounds.

Sadiq Khan said, “"London is open to all people and all communities - we don't just tolerate each other's differences, we embrace them. Nowhere is this more apparent than in London's joyous celebration of Diwali in Trafalgar Square.”

“Here, London's Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities come together to celebrate and to share the festivities with Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds. Diwali's central message of peace and mutual respect is one that we can all learn from. To all those celebrating this month, I wish you a very happy and enjoyable Diwali,” said Khan.

The event has been organized to mark Diwali by the Mayor of London’s office and the Diwali in London Committee and is supported by Jet Airways and the Incredible India campaign.

Reports said that Khan will officially open the event by lighting a lamp on the stage on Sunday alongside his Indian-origin Deputy Mayor for Business, Rajesh Agrawal.

Diwali London Committee chairperson 2016, Sanjay Gadhvi said, “his year we celebrate 15th year of Diwali in Trafalgar Square, London. This wonderful festival is filled with lights, lamps, music, sweets and gifts, but the Diwali story is more than the story of a single day of festive celebrations. It is a story of dedication to the pursuance and protection of the truth, justice, cooperation and respect.”

By Prajakt K.