LAHORE, Oct 20: The Hindu community in the city and elsewhere in Punjab is all set to celebrate Diwali on Saturday. Spokeswoman Naheed Samuel of the minorities ministry said two main functions would be held in Lahore and Rahim Yar Khan. There would be smaller functions also in the other cities.

She said a few dozen Hindus lived in Lahore while they were in hundreds in Rahim Yar Khan.

In Lahore, Ms Samuel said the Diwali function in Lahore would be held in Krishna Temple on Ravi Road.

Punjab minorities minister Joyce Rufen Julius would be the chief guest.

The Krishna Temple has been decorated for the purpose and its administrators say a large number of people will turn up for Diwali.

Hindu community leader Dr Manuhar Chand said he would welcome people from all faiths to the event. “We are open to all religions. The event is not only for the Hindu community. We believe such events provide the best opportunity for people of all religions to share and exchange their views on inter-faith harmony.”