London celebrates the Festival of Lights
On a warm and sunny autumn Sunday, 12th October 2025, more than 30,000 people gathered in Trafalgar Square to celebrate Diwali – the Festival of Lights. The annual event, organised by the Diwali in London (DiL) Committee in partnership with the Mayor of London, has become one of the capital’s most vibrant and inclusive multicultural celebrations.
This year saw record attendance, with visitors enjoying a full day of music, dance, food, and spiritual reflection. The unusually warm weather added to the festive spirit, as the Square came alive with colour, joy, and community togetherness.
OneJAIN’s presence at Diwali on the Square
As in previous years, OneJAIN – a collaboration of 35 Jain organisations representing the Jain community across the UK – was honoured to serve on the DiL Committee and play an active part in the celebrations.
The OneJAIN marquee welcomed visitors and introduced them to Jain philosophy and Diwali traditions. The theme this year encouraged guests to reflect on how many of their values already align with Jain principles of compassion and non-violence.
In the Harmony Zone, Jain representatives joined other faith groups to share messages of unity and interfaith understanding. Around 3 pm, Jain speakers participated in the multi-faith talk, explaining the deeper spiritual significance of Diwali as a celebration of Lord Mahavir’s Nirvana (Mahavir Nirvana Kalyanak).
The SRMD team presented a lively and graceful dance performance on the main stage, which was warmly received by the audience. In the Culture Zone, young flautist Dhyaana Haria delighted listeners with a soothing and skilful recital that captured the essence of serenity and joy.
Also watch: Garba Dancers: https://youtube.com/shorts/fVADJR3j-NQ?si=8xTPQ8nKcWwJJV1r
The Bhajan Zone featured devotional singing by Saggar Malde, Jilna Gosrani, Paarul Shah, and Palak Kamdar. Their bhakti songs, sung with heartfelt emotion, created a joyful and reflective atmosphere among the audience. A mindfulness and meditation session led by Priyesh Khanderia offered a calm and peaceful interlude amidst the day’s activity.
Recognition from the Mayor of London
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, attended the event and praised the dedication of all communities and volunteers who make Diwali on the Square a highlight of London’s cultural calendar. He acknowledged the festival’s role in bringing people of all backgrounds together in the spirit of light, peace, and hope.
Thank you from the IOJ
The Institute of Jainology extends sincere thanks to all OneJAIN volunteers whose commitment and teamwork helped share the Jain message of peace, compassion, and self-realisation at this major London celebration.
We wish everyone a Happy Diwali and a prosperous year ahead — may the light of wisdom and harmony continue to shine in all hearts.
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