FOR the first time in Huddersfield's history, the town hall has been decorated to celebrate a major Indian festival.

Lights spelling out Happy Diwali - the Hindu festival of light - have been erected over its front entrance.

Diwali starts on Saturday.

Hindus have worked with members of the Christian, Jewish, Sikh and Muslim communities to get the lights displayed.

The display was opened by Kirklees mayor Clr Barbara Allonby.

She was joined by members of the council's racial equality department and religious representatives, including Bishop of Pontefract the Rev Tony Robinson.

After the opening, a procession with drummers and children dressed as nine Hindu deities wound its way from the town hall to the Hindu temple at Zetland Street.

There more illuminations were opened and the Mayor was given a traditional Hindu welcome ceremony.

Kiran Bali, one of the organisers, said: "It is a really big event for us."

The name Diwali translates as `row of lights', as the festival is known for twinkling candles, lamps and fireworks.

Throughout the five day festival, tributes are made to the Hindu goddesses Lakshmi, for wealth, and Kali, for strength.

On the final day, Bali, an ancient Indian king, is remembered and Hindus are asked to see good in others, including enemies.

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