Bollywood and Punjabi stars perform at local mall for Diwali Festival of Lights in Brampton

International music stars will tear up the stage at a Brampton mall this weekend for an annual Diwali celebration.

This weekend marks the 9th annual Diwali Festival of Lights at Shoppers World in Brampton, and this year’s event will feature a pair of Bollywood and Punjabi performers with huge followings here in Canada and around the world.

The free weekend of events is sponsored by OLG with a lineup of Bollywood and Punjabi musical performances, workshops and cultural experiences.

Saturday will feature a headlining performance by renowned Bollywood singer Shivangi Bhayana. Hailing from Mumbai, Bhayana is known for hits like “Mein Hoon Saath Tere” from Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, and “Kudiye Ni Tere” from Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi.

Then on Sunday, Punjabi urban pop rapper and singer Deep Jandu will take the stage to perform tracks like “Aa Tenu Saer Karawan” which has seen millions of views online and his latest hit, “Whatever”, which is trending on Spotify and has over 1.5 million views on YouTube.

The festival will also feature local talent with performances by Jadoo Entertainment, Nick Pandya, founder of the famous “Dandiya with Pandya,” classical Indian dance performances from the renowned Shivanjali Dance Academy, Punjabi folk queen Vandy Kaur and Guinness World Record holders Bhangra by Nachdi Jawani.

Along with a full weekend of music, the festival will feature family-friendly activations and events like a Kid Zone with Nintendo gaming stations, magical tricks from Raman the Illusionist and Diwali “Diya” and “Rangoli” workshops led by muralist Aparna Rangnekar.

“The 9th Annual Festival of Lights is the perfect opportunity for families and friends to come together to celebrate Diwali through music, dance, art, and community spirit,” reads a release on the event. “Whether you’re there to catch the headliners, engage in fun activities, or simply experience the joy of Diwali, this year’s festival has something for everyone.”

The event promises to be “a true cultural extravaganza” and also have free face painting, balloon twisting, and art stations, workshops and giveaways, food vendors, henna tattoos, and much more.

This year’s Diwali Festival of Light on Saturday and Sunday with free admission at Shoppers World, located at 499 Main St. South.