KUCHING: The festive glow of Deepavali filled the Hare Krishna Multipurpose Hall at Jalan Ketitir, Batu Kawa on Monday, with families, friends, and even curious passers-by gathering to share laughter, food, and light in celebration of the Festival of Lights.
The Deepavali Open House, organised by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), drew over 200 visitors of various races and faiths, making it one of the most vibrant celebrations held at the hall to date.
Adding to the joyous occasion were several distinguished guests, including Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister for Women, Early Childhood, and Community Well-being Development; Datuk Simon Poh, Catholic Archbishop of Kuching; and Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, Batu Kitang assemblyman.
Their presence reflected the strong spirit of unity and mutual respect that has long defined Sarawak’s multicultural identity.
For S. Krishnarao @ Prabhu Kripa, the chairman of ISKCON, the joy was not only in the colourful decorations or the aromatic vegetarian feast, but also in seeing people of all backgrounds coming together as one.
“I am truly grateful for the blessings of the Lord.
“Today, I see people of many races and religions all gathered here together. It’s a beautiful sight, full of colour, culture, and festive spirit,” he said to Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak.
The hall buzzed with life, children in traditional attire darted between tables, and the scent of spiced curries and sweets lingered in the air.
Guests were treated to a spread of authentic Indian delicacies such as murukku, laddu, vegetarian biryani, vegetarian curry, and a refreshing asamboi lime drink.
“Everything is vegetarian, healthy and delicious.
“We want to promote not only cultural appreciation but also a healthy vegetarian lifestyle.
“People are enjoying the food and saying it tastes really good,” said Krishnarao.
The open house, which has become an annual tradition, attracted a larger crowd this year as many visitors, drawn by the bright decorations and the rhythmic music, joined in spontaneously.
“Some were just walking by and decided to come in after seeing the lights and colours.
“That’s how unity happens, through simple acts of sharing and openness,” Krishnarao added.
As the afternoon came to a close, he reflected on what Deepavali means to him.
“Deepavali is the Festival of Lights; it reminds us that light always triumphs over darkness.
“And my wish is for more people to join us next year.
“The more we share our culture, the more joy and understanding we bring to our community,” he said.
