Flags, ceramah and festive lights: Melaka juggles polls and Deepavali

Dancers from Tokee Chawlaa Productions wowed visitors and locals at the Melaka Bila Larut Malam Deepavali edition at the Stadthuys grounds on November 7, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Sunday, 08 Nov 2026 9:12 AM MYT

MELAKA, Nov 8 — Amid the fervour of the 16th Melaka State Election campaign, filled with political ceramah and party flags, the atmosphere in the historic city centre eased briefly as it was illuminated by Deepavali festivities last night.

A Bernama check at the Stadthuys grounds and Jonker Walk here found that the Melaka Bila Larut Malam programme, November edition: Deepavali 2026, had enlivened the celebration, which continued to flourish undimmed by the current political fervour.

The main stage came alive with cross-cultural performances, featuring lively songs and classical melodies by artistes of various races, alongside nimble dancers in colourful saris and kurtas, including a captivating performance by Badan Warisan Seni Melaka.

The Deepavali festivities also spilled over into the popular Little India Melaka area, which remained crowded with people shopping for last-minute essentials, including new clothes, home decorations and an assortment of traditional sweets and snacks such as muruku and ladoo.

The business lane resembled a living mural, with rows of shops displaying colourful attire and fresh flower garlands, while henna-painting stalls were filled with women having traditional floral patterns applied to their fingers to complete their look for Deepavali morning.

People of various local communities and foreign tourists also took the opportunity to experience the traditions by wearing traditional attire and enjoying popular street food such as pani puri and samosas at stalls operating until late at night.

Members of the Indian community shop for last-minute Deepavali essentials at Little India in Melaka City on November 7, 2026. — Bernama pic

Last night’s festivities showed that seasons and political differences should not divide people; instead, Melaka’s cultural diversity and bonds of fellowship remain the foundation of strong unity across all arenas of competition.

The Election Commission has set Nov 14 as polling day for the Melaka state election, with early voting on Nov 10.

More news on the 16th Melaka State Election at https://election.bernama.com/prn/melaka/2026. — Bernama