We Bring Light: Leicester's Diwali Legacy

Directed by Kieran Vyas

2026

Being based in Leicester myself, Diwali has been regular staple of the calendar ever since I’ve been here and this new short film from Kieran Vyas explores this celebratory “festival of lights” and its significance amongst the city’s diverse communities and beyond.

Diwali itself means 'rows of lighted lamps' and traditionally sites are decorated with small lamps called 'diyas' in November every year.

However, this documentary explains how these customs slowly grew into a much larger spectacle over many years. Specifically Leicetser’s festivities, which are now considered the largest outside of India and the film very much focuses on its significance in the Midlands.

It also provides fascinating insights with a number of people via interviews as we are presented with their warm recollections of the past. Ranjan Saujani arrived in Leicester 1979 and explains the occassion's humble beginnings in family homes before moving further into the wider community.

These personal stories ensure the doc’s atmosphere of friendliness and enthusiasm, whilst also giving context to those not as familiar with its history.

Up next is Jit Dhanji who has been involved in the tradition since the 80s and recalls its increasing development within neighbourhood centres. He goes on to explain that despite these events being far from India, “Leicester is where the heart is”. Hear hear.

Finally we hear from Chandni Premgi. As a dancer we are shown that as well as the customs of the past, there’s a variety of welcoming entertainment from arts, culture, food and more linked to the event.

Hindus, Sikhs and Jains all take part, and each observe in slightly different ways, but the documentary’s structure and tone makes it comprehensible to others beyond the religious aspects as well.

The director is incredibly skilled with the documentary format, establishing helpful clips, interviews, old photos and graphics to explain the timeline of events from the three interviewees’ perspectives. The film has a very professional look and its great editing frames its story well - as it links individual experiences with a wider cultural context.

A fascinating portrait of a now established local event that brings people together mixing traditional events and cultural practices, We Bring the Light is an essential short-form documentary. Made with love and respect, as well as superb technical filmmaking elements, it’s an accessible tribute to the past, the future and the Midlands itself. Enlighten yourself with this as soon as you can.

★★★★½

4.5 / 5

Michael Sales

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