The streets of Manor Park burst into colour yesterday as communities came together to mark International Tamil Day.

Newham Recorder: The street is lit up as the Tamil Indian community in Manor Park celebrates the annual lights swith on.The street is lit up as the Tamil Indian community in Manor Park celebrates the annual lights swith on. (Image: Archant)

Residents gathered on the corner of Wordsworth Avenue and High Street North to watch a lights switch on to celebrate the day - also known as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival to welcome in the New Year celebrated by Tamils from Nadu India, Malaysia, Singapore, Mauritius, South Africa and Sri Lanka.

Speeches were made by representatives from the Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities as well as young people and local businesses followed by a street party.

Cllr Paul Sathianesan said: “We Tamils around the world as Hindus, Christians, and Muslims, united together beyond our differences in religion, cast and politics to celebrate Pongal as our heritage and International Tamil Day.

“This year lights will be for ‘Peace around the World’.

“Newham is the promised land for many diverse communities from around the world, which recognise and celebrate the different culture, food, music and festivals.

“I am proud to see many communities coming together to celebrate this in style.”