Diwali Heritage Film
The We Bring Light Film follows the stories of three individuals, each representing a different era of Leicester’s Diwali festival - past, present, and future. Through their experiences, memories and stories, we see how the festival has grown, how it connects generations, and how it continues to shape Leicester's cultural identity. This documentary, created by Kieran Vyas and Rendah Films, is a celebration of community, tradition, and the power of light.
A note from the Director:
“For over 40 years, the Diwali celebrations in Leicester have been a dazzling spectacle of community, culture and enduring light. With this film, we set out to capture the history of where it all began, the scale of what it has become, and the hope it gives to future generations.”
Kieran Vyas, We Bring Light Film Director
BSL Version
Please enjoy this British Sign Language (BSL) version of the We Bring Light film, created with translation by Rinkoo Barpaga so that d/Deaf audiences can experience the powerful stories, memories, and celebrations at the heart of Leicester’s Diwali festival.
Film Credits
Interviewee - Ranjan Saujani
Interviewee - Jit Dhanji
Interviewee and Dancer - Chandni Premgi
Film Director - Kieran Vyas
Director of Photography - Rendah Films
BSL Translator - Rinkoo Barpaga
Lead Researcher - Malini Chakraborty
Community Researcher - Asha Krishna
Producer - Jasmine Man
With thanks to our supporters and partners
Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre
Belgrave Library
The Emerald Centre
Leicester City Council
Leicester Hindu Festival Council
Navrang Arts
Mellor Primary School
Aakash Odedra Company and Desi Masti Studios
East Midlands Oral History Archives
Leicestershire Record Office
Leicester Stories
Leicester Museum
Funded by Arts Council England and National Heritage Lottery Fund
Produced by Inspirate