BOLLYWOOD singers brightened up Basingstoke as the town's Hindu community gathered for one of the religion's biggest celebrations.

Diwali, known as the festival of light, is celebrated on October 21, and a couple of weeks later, Hindus get together for a big party.

Ritilal Padhiar, chairman of Basingstoke Hindu Society, said: "Diwali is like Christmas for Hindu people. We always have a party celebrating the event, but never on the same day. We are not allowed to drink on Diwali, which is why we have a party later."

Spicy Indian food was laid out and a band played folk songs and Bollywood music throughout the night at the society's meeting hall in Carnival Hall, Council Road, Basingstoke.

The society, which has around 150 members, can be contacted on 01256 464031.