Diwali, also known as the festival of lights was celebrated by the Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association (HASWA) at their community centre Greenfields, Kilmartin Way, Elm Park, Essex on Saturday 9th November 2013. It was a community function and Sansar Singh Narwal General Secretary of HASWA welcomed everybody to the 16th Annual Diwali celebration by the Association. He said that events like these are good for community cohesion and help promote a better cultural understanding of the rich diverse community we have in Havering.
Amongst the guests was Dame Angela Watkinson DBE MP for Hornchurch & Upminster, Jon Cruddas MP for Dagenham & Rainham, Councillor Linda Trew Deputy Mayor of Havering & Councillor Melvin Wallace and his wife Joan. The guests (both the MP’s & Deputy Mayor) delivered messages of goodwill to the community.
HASWA’s cultural entertainment included Bollywood dance performances by children and singing by the ladies group held at HASWA every week. Professional singer Malkit Singh sang beautifully the rest of the evening whilst everybody showed off their Bollywood dance moves!! Authentic Indian cuisine from Samosa King and Kulfi donated by Continental Foods was enjoyed by all. Airfield Tesco and members of HASWA donated the raffle prizes.
Ashok Sedha and Parminder Singh were presented with an Appreciation Voluntary Award for their dedication, time and help in supporting all HASWA activities in helping the Asian and wider community of Havering.
