HUNDREDS of residents flocked to a Hampshire town to take part in a popular Hindu festival.

The Durga Puja brought an explosion of colour, music and dance to Hiltingbury Recreation Ground in Chandler’s Ford.

The three-day event is the biggest on the calendar for the Hindu community and honours the goddess Durga, the mother of the universe, and her triumph over evil.

Celebrations started on Friday with pupils from the Great Oaks School in Southampton getting to see what it was all about.

Throughout the weekend, residents also had the opportunity to pray together and enjoy live music.

Members of the Hampshire Puja and Cultural Association entertained attendees with a dance drama held on Saturday night, while the Indian rock band Krosswindz and British musician Matt Fisher entertained residents on Sunday afternoon.

The event was organised by the Hampshire Puja and Cultural Association, which aims to promote diversity.

Madhu Acharyya, from the association, said: “The event went really well. The key purpose of the event is to grow the multi-cultural awareness across the community that is essential to strengthen community cohesion and diversity.

“It was great to have school children attending. It’s important for us to let children know about different cultures and the importance of tolerance.”

He also confirmed that celebrations will be held again next years.