The Isle of Wight's Indian community enjoyed a weekend of festivities - and were joined by a special guest.

Businessman Rajesh Patel organised a party at the Mayfair Hotel in Shanklin on Friday night and welcomed the deputy high commissioner of India in the UK, Sujith Ghosh.

It was a good excuse to bring Diwali celebrations forward.

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Special guests included Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson, Isle of Wight Councillor Ian Ward, IW Deputy Lord Lieutenant Brigadier Maurice Sheen, County Press editor Lori Little and County Press merchandiser Pamela Parker.

There were speeches about the positive impact of British Indians in the UK, highlighting trade and work within the NHS. 

Mr Ghosh said: "It is very inspiring that you have managed to keep so close to the Indian traditions but integrated with the local community. Diwali has come early, and what a warm welcome!"

On Saturday at the Riverside Centre, it was the chance to celebrate Onam - a harvest festival celebration from the Kerala region. 

This event was organised by the Isle of Wight Malayalee Association.

The courtyard of the Riverside Centre was filled with dancers (see video below).

Organised by Ashly and Jerin, the ten-day celebration started mid September and included dance, music, cricket and food.

Ashly said: "It was Onam, one of India's harvests mostly celebrated in the southern part of India - Kerala.
"It is the remembrance of the return of King Mahabali to visit his kingdom.
"We the Malayalee community of the Island recreated it to bring the joy of togetherness and unity."