An alternative insight into Indian culture is on offer at a film festival.
The Yes India Film Festival at Rialto Cinemas will coincide with the Diwali festival of lights, India's biggest cultural celebration.
Tag-lined "cinema that makes you think", the film festival aims to give Kiwis a look at parallel cinema – India's sector of art-house movies which are often overshadowed by the world famous Bollywood genre.
Organiser Ravi Kambhoj says this is a perfect way for the public to get an insight into the rich culture and history of India.
"Bollywood is what the western world knows India's cinema industry for, but at the same time we make beautiful films. Yes, India has a focus on dynamic, visionary cinema."
Mr Kambhoj says the festival, supported by Diwali co-organiser the Asia New Zealand Foundation, is timed to open at the same time as the festival of lights because both events are a celebration of Indian culture.
"It is an opportunity to not only celebrate and indulge in the sights, sounds, tastes and colour of the festival of lights, but to enjoy an intriguing mix of Indian films made outside the Bollywood mould."
Diwali will take place during this weekend.
Held at Aotea Square, the Aotea Centre and The Edge, it is a festival marking the new year and celebrating the triumph of light over darkness.
As well as the film festival, highlights include international music and magician acts, art exhibitions, dance competitions, fireworks and food.
Foundation spokeswoman Jennifer King says Diwali is to India what Christmas is to New Zealand.
"It's been celebrated in New Zealand for as long as there's been Indians in New Zealand. But what Asia New Zealand wanted was to bring it out for everyone to see and take part in."
Ms King says overall, she is pleased with how Diwali is being taken to heart in New Zealand.
The Yes India Film Festival will open tomorrow with a World Vision fundraising evening, screening a film about the making of Mahatma Agenda. The evening will include bangra dancers – a popular Indian style of dance.
Diwali, hosted by the Asian New Zealand Foundation and the Auckland City Council, takes place on October 30 and 31 at Aotea Square, Aotea Centre and The Edge. Events are free.
The Yes India Film Festival is on until November 3 at Rialto Cinemas, Newmarket.
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