There was no need to be from South Asia, or have any knowledge of cultural events in that part of the world, to enjoy Diwali the Indian holiday celebrated at the Maple Ridge library on Saturday.

Now in its sixth year, the event which is put on cooperatively by the library and the Family Education and Support Centre is drawing increased numbers to take in the entertainment, activities, and food.

“The crowd has grown,” said councilor Michael Morden of Maple Ridge. “It is at least double the amount of people from the first time I came,” to the event four years ago.

“Today in India, a billion people celebrate with many lights and food and festivities,” commented Dr. Biju Mathew.

Stay tuned to the online and print editions of The TIMES for more.