Diwali At Times Square 2024 Shines With Cultural Celebrations
India-West Staff Reporter
NEW YORK, NY – The Diwali at Times Square 2024 celebration, held on October 19, illuminated the heart of New York City, leaving a lasting impression on those who attended the vibrant festival. The event, organized by Neeta Bhasin, aimed to bring Indian culture into mainstream America while fostering a sense of pride and cross-cultural exchange among Indian American youth. Bhasin shared her excitement about the festival’s growing support, noting the increasing alignment of corporate sponsors and mainstream media with their mission.
This year’s celebration, titled “Colors of India and America,” offered a spectacular blend of traditional and contemporary performances from various Indian states, as well as ethnic communities such as Indo-Caribbean, African, and Mexican. One of the major attractions was the Diwali Bazaar, which featured a ‘Kids Zone’ where children created Rangoli art and painted Diyas (clay lamps). The initiative, supported by Professor Alka Mujerki and students from Manhattanville University, allowed children to connect with the festival’s traditions. The bazaar also offered interactive Diwali book readings by Priya Kumari of Eternal Tree Books, food samplings, and a fashion show featuring One Minute Saree. Additionally, the free henna station proved popular ahead of Karva Chauth, an important fasting tradition among Indian women.
The event’s highlight was the Diya lighting ceremony, synchronized with the countdown on the One Times Square tower. Key figures, including Consul General of India Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Senator Chuck Schumer, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, and Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, participated in this momentous occasion, reinforcing the celebration’s significance.
Pradhan spoke about the deeper meaning of Diwali, emphasizing that the festival is not just about lighting lamps but about “shared values, culture, togetherness, love, and diversity.” Senator Schumer highlighted the contributions of the South Asian community to New York City, celebrating Diwali’s official recognition as a school holiday. Mayor Adams echoed this sentiment, calling Times Square the perfect location to celebrate the festival of lights, reinforcing the city’s commitment to inclusivity.
In recognition of outstanding contributions to the community, Chandrika Tandon, Grammy Award Nominee and Founder of the Krishnamurthy Tandon Foundation, received the Woman of the Year Award. Tandon expressed her gratitude, dedicating the honor to the entire audience. Raja Rajamannar, Mastercard’s Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, was honored with the Man of the Year Award, acknowledging his impactful work and the support of his wife, Jyothi.
The event also marked the debut of House of Spices’ Diwali campaign, aiming to connect Indian students with their roots, no matter where they are in the world. The celebration culminated in the Light Up Times Square Concert, featuring an exciting lineup of performances by national and international artists.
The program opened with a Ganesh prayer by Tandon and the Young People’s Chorus of New York City. Sparsh Shah, an American rapper with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, delivered an inspiring performance, followed by singer and songwriter Shannon K, who captivated the crowd. Indian artists Preeti and Pinky brought nostalgia to the stage with their popular 90’s songs, while Sukhbir Singh, the ‘Prince of Bhangra,’ energized the crowd with his electrifying performance, especially his hit song “Oh Ho Ho Ho.” The night ended with a dynamic performance by Raghav, who got the crowd singing along to his chart-topping songs, including “Angel Eyes.”
Throughout the event, Samman for All—an organization focused on empowering individuals from lower-income backgrounds—was acknowledged for its role in facilitating sustainable living and social mobility.
The Diwali at Times Square celebration was more than just a festival; it was a testament to the unity, diversity, and vibrant spirit of both the Indian and broader global community.
