'Sweets, fireworks, and family': What does Diwali mean to you?

Hundreds of Enver Secondary School students in Surrey, B.C.,poured into the hallways during lunch time to kick off Diwali celebrations on Thursday.

The five-day festival of light is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jainsaround the world.

"Best thing about Diwali is that it doesn't have any discrimination, all the Indians get together and celebrate it," said Zuben Bala.

The event was organized by the school's student council to teach all students aboutthe celebration.

"Alot of youngsters are forgetting it. Out here, parents go to work and also maybe some people can't celebrate at home," said Bala.

Grade 11 studentManjotSangherewas one of several students to perform at the event. Sangheredanceda traditional Bhangranumber.

"It was a bit scary, I was not ready at all," she said.

Sangheresaid it was important to showcase her culture."Ifeel that a lot of people are, I can't say embarrassed, but are just too shy to embrace their own culture and show it off.

"You should be proud of who you are and never shy away from your culture."

The five-days ofDiwali celebrations will continue throughout the week.

Students told us what Diwalimeans to them: