This year the festival of Diwali celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains falls on Tuesday 13th November 2012. Southall is one place where this "Festival of Lights" cannot be overlooked, as the town has tens of thousands Hindus and Sikhs.

Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. The word Diwali or Deepavali means 'rows of lighted lamps'.

It is hard not to notice the sheer number of front garden walls decorated with small lighted candles or oil lamps called diyas made from clay.

Residents along the Broadway come out to their front gardens and light up the sky with a constant barrage of colourful, loud and spectacular fireworks.

It is not surprising when you can get "buy one – get two free" deals in Southall. So it is advisable to be careful when walking around later in the day.

Some of the houses and buildings also have colourful and decorative lighting on display.

Southall is a busy place on normal days. On these occasions it is full of people and the atmosphere is lively.

The Asian sweet (mithai) makers are happily very busy. Jalebi Junction in Southall, famous for making fresh Jalebis in front of customers on the pavement, will be extra busy.

The festivities last for 5 days.