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AIA hosts Diwali spectacle in New York
A grand fireworks display over the East River was the highlight of the event
Fireworks display over the East River / Image: supplied
The Association of Indians in America, New York chapter organised their 36th Annual Deepavali Festival at the South Street Seaport in New York earlier this month. The event drew in crowds from across the tri-state area.
NY Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, attended the event to celebrate Diwali’s recognition as a school holiday in the city. Council Member Shekar Krishnan from District 25 and Deputy Commissioner of Community Relations Bureau at the NYC Commission on Human Rights, Kajori Chaudhuri also graced the event.
In his opening speech, AIA-NY president Dr. Jagdish Gupta, recalled the achievements of AIA over the last 56 years, such as New York City recognizing Diwali as an official holiday, suspending alternate side street parking on Diwali since 2005, celebrating the festival in Gracie Mansion and later in White House in 2006, and the release of official USPS “Forever Stamp” commemorating Diwali in 2013.
Chaudhari described Diwali as the festival of joy and happiness for families highlighting that the holiday is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Buddhists and people of many different countries including Indo-Caribbeans.
The day-long event began with the national anthems of two countries and showcased cultural and traditional performances by various performance groups. The attendees were also treated to food by Michelin Star Chef Hemant Mathur at the event.
A Ram Leela reenactment directed by Pandit Satya Narayan Charka and a Bhangra evening by Basement Bhangra Queen, DJ Rekha and her team enthralled the audience. However, the main highlight of the event was the fireworks display over the East River in the finale. The 30 minute show was accompanied by Indian music in the background.
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