Cochrane's South Asian community is preparing for this year's Diwali celebrations and they want to include the broader Cochrane community.

Also known as the Festival of Lights; Diwali is one of the major events in the calendar year celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists.

Last year the local South Asian community held a contest to give the broader Cochrane community an opportunity to learn about the holiday and win prizes.

Cochranite, Paul Singh says they're doing it again this year.

"We wanted to say 'thank you to the people who did the contest last year," says Singh. "It was a great support from them and touches your heart that they're being educated about different, inclusive and diverse cultures."

The local South Asian community is asking Cochrane residents to answer a few simple questions about Diwali for a chance to win one of five $50 gift cards to a local Cochrane business.

  • Why is Diwali celebrated?
  • What is the significance of the celebration?
  • What date does Diwali fall on this year?

While the contest is open to all ages, the South Asian community is strongly encouraging participation from Cochrane's youth. 

"I would love to see the kids answer them," says Singh. "Those are the ages where you can learn and really bring it to the next level."

Singh says that he stumbled upon on social media post by a grade three teacher who was looking for information about Diwali to share with her students and he was touched to see that inclusion being taught in the classroom.

For the second year, celebrations will be modified because of COVID-19, but Singh is hopeful for a vibrant, in-person celebration next year with lots of community participation.

"We're trying to keep the rhythm and hopefully next year we can have an in-person event in Cochrane," explains Singh. "A  bigger scale and we'd love to have people come and feel the festive mood and how we enjoy it. We'll be working towards that."

If you or your child would like to enter this year's Diwali contest, you can do so here.

The winners will be announced at 5 pm. on Diwali.