Bangram style: A cartoon based on Bappi Lahiri, a popular Indian music director who will perform tomorrow in HCM City. — File Photo

HCM City (VNS)— Of all the reasons to celebrate, the triumph of good over evil stands uppermost, whatever form the victory takes.

Indians celebrate this victory in the most profound manner – dispelling darkness with light.

They call it Deepavali, Diwali or several other variations of the same name and theme, ultimately meaning the Festival of Lights.

Whether it is the killing of the demon Narakasura, the return of righteous King Rama from 14 years of exile, the return of the Pandava princes after 12 years of exile and a year of living incognito, or even the defeat of arrogant Indira, the god of rain, thunder and lightning, Diwali is day to rejoice, to invoke blessings of the divine, and to seek prosperity and fulfillment for all.

In HCM City, Indian expatriates, through the Indian Chamber of Commerce (INCHAM) have made the Diwali celebration one of the most popular cultural events on the annual calendar.

More than a thousand people gather for the celebrations, with Vietnamese and expatriates from other countries, not to mention around 200 officials from government departments and foreign missions in the city, joining the Indian community for an evening of unbridled gaiety.

This year, popular Bollywood music director Bappi Lahiri, a huge hit when he came here two years ago for the same festival, is back to rock the city with music that blends Indian rhythms with western beats in a way that makes it impossible for the feet not to twitch and itch to dance.

A huge spread of delectable delicacies from all parts of the huge sub-continent will be served by leading Indian restaurants in the city, and a free flow of choice spirits will keep spirits high throughout. In the spirit of the event, part of the proceeds will be donated to charity.

The Diwali gala 2012 will begin at 6.30pm tomorrow at the Sheraton Saigon Hotel, 80 Dong Du Street, District 1. Tickets for the event can be obtained at the venue. — VNS