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Indo-American Festivals, Inc. hosts 26th Annual Dushahra Festival in Edison

The 26th Annual Dushahra Festival in Edison attracted over 15,000 attendees with performances and cultural showcases.

Huge crowd watching Ramleela. / Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal

Indian American community organization, Indo-American Festivals (IAF) hosted its 26th Annual Grand Dushahra Festival on Oct. 5, at Lake Papaianni Park, Edison, New Jersey.

The day-long event celebrated Indian culture and the triumph of good over evil with vibrant performances, family activities, and traditional Indian cuisine.

Festivities commenced with a series of performances curated by Pratibha Nichakawade, featuring 22 song and dance acts. The centerpiece of the day was a ‘Ramleela’ performance, staged by Varsha Naik’s group, with 85 actors ranging from toddlers to seniors.

 

Ramleela Scene of Seeta Swayamvar / Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal

For the second consecutive year, the event featured a 15-foot Hanuman idol, the largest of its kind at any Dushahra Festival in the U.S., along with a special ‘Maha Aarti’.

15 feet Tall Hanuman Idol / Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal

The day’s events culminated with the ‘Ravan Dahan’, the burning of a 25-foot-tall effigy of Ravan, symbolizing the victory of Lord Ram. The effigy, crafted by Krishna Singhal, captivated the audience as it was set ablaze to conclude the celebration.

Ravana Effigy / Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal

Attendees enjoyed a wide array of Indian and fusion delicacies from vendors like Vatan, and the ‘Meena Bazaar’ offered over 150 stalls selling traditional clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. A free health screening camp, organized by the Agarwal Samaj of the USA, was also provided.

Esteemed guests included Edison Councilman Ajay Patil and Grammy Award-winning artist Falguni Shah. The event was supported by numerous sponsors and volunteers, with a grant from the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey State Council for the Arts.

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