A temple will be all lit up to celebrate the festival of light.

Thousands of people from across the county will be travelling to Bhaktivedanta Manor in Aldenham to celebrate Diwali.

This is the temple’s second biggest religious celebration which tells the story of good triumphing over evil, and light over darkness as told in the ancient Vedic scriptures the Ramayana.

Lord Rama and his companions travelling home and led through the darkness by villagers lighting the way in honour of their return.

More than 15,000 are expected to attend the festival at the UK’s most famous temple, and there will be vegetarian food provided for all visitors, as well as traditional dances and performances, face painting, henna and a firework display at 6.30pm.

Weeks of preparation have gone into designing the altar and the temple room and the deities are a special draw for the pilgrims.

In August Janmashtami, the temple’s biggest festival, was held to celebrate Lord Krishna’s birthday and promote the importance of love, unity and peace.

Temple President of Bhaktivedanta Manor Srutidharma Dasa said: “Diwali is traditionally a time for families to come together – it gives us an opportunity to give, forgive and to be grateful.

“It is a time when we think about giving to others - helping those who are less privileged than ourselves.

“And, by forgiving others it grants us an opportunity for new beginnings. Bhaktivedanta Manor’s Diwali celebrations promise to be spectacular this year – the fireworks against the famous Manor building have been an iconic celebration of this wonderful festival.

“Bring friends, bring family, bring the kids – it is one celebration for everyone and one not to miss out on.”