The Canada Tamil Sangam recently hosted a grand celebration of Diwali in Toronto, Canada, the festival of lights, which brought together the Tamil community in a joyous and memorable event. The event, held on December 2nd 2023 showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil community while fostering unity and spreading the message of love and harmony.

The event started with singing Canadian National Anthem, Indian National Anthem and Tamil Thai Vazhthu. Canada Tamil Sangam’s President Janaki Kamalakkannan delivered her speech and she spoke about the sangam activities in 2023 and the Sangam’s participation in Canada Indian Arts Festival on May 27th 2023 which was one of the larger events in Canada this year.


The CTS Diwali 2023 Event featured a captivating lineup of cultural performances that mesmerized the audience. Traditional Tamil dances, music, and theatrical performances showcased the talent and creativity of the community members. The vibrant costumes, intricate choreography, and soulful music added to the festive atmosphere, leaving the attendees enthralled.

The performances include Bharathanatiyam by the Team of KARIKA - The Verses of Dance, Garba Dance by Students of Kalai Aruvi Academy of Fine Arts and choreographed by Teacher.Smt. Renuga Vigneswaran, Kollywood Dance by Roja Kootam and choreographed by Vaishavi Sathiyamoorthi, Halloween Parade by CTS Kids, Parai Drumming and Dancing by Ahkenam Arts, Kollywood songs by Sharon and Vaishavi and Tamil Speech by Muthaih titled as “Deepavaliyum Tamilum”. Also CTS Kids participated in the Drawing Competition theme is Diwali and couple games hosted by Durga Sathish.

It is great to hear that the guests had a positive experience about the General Pattimandram headed by Vallikkannan Maruthappan on a topic of “Who plays the biggest role in raising a child in Canada?” and speakers were Radhika Sridhar, Rasanai Sriram and CTS Members.

Founder and Chairman of Canada Tamil Sangam Vallikkannan Maruthappan delivered his speech and also updated the guests about Tamil Sangam’s upcoming events about Pongal 2024 and Tamil Heritage Convention 2024 in India and also spoke about the June 4th 2023 Vaigai Vizha ever first event celebrated in India by Canada Tamil Sangam and its success.

Masters of Ceremony Durga Sathish, Alagu Vallikkannan and Harini Vallikkannan MCs of the Canada Tamil Sangam Diwali event deserve appreciation for their exceptional hosting skills, ability to connect with the audience, and their efforts in creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Also they started the event exactly on time at 5:30 P.M. as announced maintained the time till the end of the event.

No celebration is complete without delicious food, and this Diwali event did not disappoint. Guests were treated to a wide array of mouthwatering Tamil delicacies, including traditional sweets, savory snacks, and aromatic dishes.

Notable Guests were MPP Logan Ganapathi, Tamil Mirror Editor Charles Devasagayam and Dr.Arun Chockalingam.

The success of the Diwali event can be attributed to the active participation and engagement of the Tamil community. The Executive Team and Volunteers of the Canada Tamil Sangam worked tirelessly to organize the event, ensuring that every detail was meticulously planned and executed. The event provided a platform for community members to come together, strengthen bonds, and celebrate their shared heritage. The celebration not only strengthened the bonds within the Tamil community but also promoted cultural exchange and understanding among diverse communities.

- Dinamalar Reader Elaiyavan