More than 10,000 people from across the UK came together at the Bhaktivedanta Manor Hare Krishna Temple in Hilfield Lane, Bushey, on Sunday to celebrate Diwali. 

Visitors enjoyed face painting, henna, traditional dance performances, and the annual grand firework display. 

Bhaktivedanta Temple was donated by the Beatles star, George Harrison, to the Hare Krishna movement in 1973. It is the only temple in the UK to host a Diwali fireworks display on such a big scale. 

Communications secretary for the temple, Radha Mohan Das, said: “The day was a really big success, everyone had a lot of fun. There was a great atmosphere, particularly in the lead up to the fireworks.”

The day also saw two drama perfomances, which told parts of the story behind Diwali.

Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil, which is told in the ancient Indian text, Ramayana.

Lord Rama, his wife Sita, brother Laxman and friend Hanuman are returning home after defeating the demon Ravana.

Their journey home took place during the night in complete darkness and to guide them home safely thousands of local villagers, celebrating their return, lit up their route by hanging lamps, lighting divas, candles and fires – which is why it is often called the festival of lights.

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