Dussehra, Diwali celebrated in British city

Thousands of people of various faiths from across Manchester gathered at the city centre to celebrate the festivals of Dussehra and Diwali on Saturday, a British media report said.

Over 8,000 people from across northwest England came together at Albert Square to enjoy art, dance, food, music and spectacular display of fireworks during the 10th annual Dussehra Diwali Mela organised by the Indian Association Manchester and Manchester Council, the Manchester Evening News reported on Sunday.

The day began with live performances by singers Sheeba Khan and Shubhra and British Asian Bhangra band Shin DCS.

Bollywood entertainment outfit Spice Entertainment also wowed the crowds.

Visitors were treated to arts and crafts workshops, as well as stalls selling Indian food, clothes, jewellery and accessories.

At dusk, there was a lantern procession as part of the Diwali celebrations.

"The event brings people together from every community in Greater Manchester. The event is also fantastic artistically and gives lots of performers a chance to shine. It's not your average day in Manchester, that's for sure," Rajyashree Dutta, president of the Indian Association Manchester, was quoted as saying.

In India, Dussehra festival will be celebrated on October 22 and Diwali on November 11 this year.