Divali – also spelled Diwali, Devali, Deepavali – 2011 in Suriname ( popularly known as the “festival of lights” ) started with set of holy fire at Onafhankelijkheids Plein (Independence Square) in Paramaribo, Suriname – South America 22nd of October 2011.

“Ram & Sita” set first light of fire on holy ghee then Minister of Home Affairs of Suriname Mr. Soewarto Moestadja added first ghee to the dia.

The starting ceremony of Divali 2011 organized by CUS Culturele Unie Suriname / Cultural Union of Suriname. The President of the (CUS) Ashwin Adhin, Father Charles Choenni, Gangaram Panday and pandit Naraindat Soewarto, Minister of Home Affairs of Suriname Mr. Soewarto Moestadja on behalf of the President of Suriname made speeches full with emphasized the diversity of the Surinamese culture. They highlighted the importance of freedom of religions and cultures; All groups in the country provide the Surinamese identity together.

My series of photographs taken during the beginning day of Divali at 22nd October 2011 and covers some early hours of the ceremony’s. Hope you like it. All the best,

Source : Please visit Wikipedia, for more info about Diwali