Source: IANS
On October 24, 2005 the Indo-Asian News Service reported, "Traffic came to a standstill on South Africa's busiest freeway as a celebration related to Diwali in the heart of the city's cultural and art hub attracted more than 10,000 people Saturday. The 'Newtown Diwali Festival' proved to be a huge success, as Zulu dance came combined with Kathak and Bharatanatyam. Performers in flowing, colorful costumes presented a unique fusion of Indian elegance and traditional African imagery where the guitar found a place next to the mridingam. Making the event more cosmopolitan was the sponsorship of one of the best and longest fireworks displays in Johannesburg by a local Chinese businessman, who preferred to remain anonymous... Moodley, project manager for the 'Newtown Diwali Festival,' said they plan is to make it an annual event. 'The Hindu community has its historical place in the cultural tapestry of South Africa, and is proud to showcase some of the key elements that are so unique and special at this Newtown event.'"