The King of Bhangra, Malkit Singh, is among the live singers and dancers taking to the stage for this year’s 'Diwali on the Square' celebrations.

The free show and festival will be held in Victoria Square, in Birmingham city centre, between 11am and 6pm on Saturday 20th October.

Birmingham based singer Malkit Singh MBE has sold millions of records worldwide and was honoured on the Broad Street Walk of Stars in 2012. Also appearing at the free celebration are Gabhru Punjab De Bhangra, Dhol Drummers and the Ken Mistry Garba Group.

As well as the best in live music and entertainment there will be food stalls, mehndi artists, face painting, sari tying and colouring competitions. The event has been organised by West Midlands Combined Authority and will see Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, joined by the High Commissioner of India to the UK, Mr Y K Sinha. The Mayor said:

“It was great last year and I am sure it will be even bigger and better this year. We have a big stage with all the cultural events, the singing and dancing, street food stalls and also health and wellbeing advice. It’s a great day out.”

Diwali is a five day festival celebrated by faiths throughout the Indian community to mark different historical events and stories but with all of them symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

It is celebrated by lighting lamps and candles in doors and windows of the home, around temples and other buildings, along with fireworks.

Click here for full details and to book a free ticket for Diwali on the Square.