By Parveen Chopra
New York, Oct 10 (IANS) An important date in the city calendar and a tradition with the Indian-American community, the Deepavali Festival at the southernmost edge of Manhattan is scheduled for Oct 14 and will be complete with fireworks, a mela (fair), Indian food, music and dance.
Spectacular fireworks lasting 20 minutes on the waterfront is the highlight of the festival at South Street Seaport, a popular mall and entertainment arena.
The festival, now in its 20th year, is organised by the Association of Indians in America (AIA) New York chapter.
The outdoor event to celebrate Diwali, which falls Nov 9 this year, is held every year in early October before the winter chill sets in.
“It sets the mood for Diwali festivities – entertainment shows, community events and private parties,” AIA president Santosh Khera told IANS.
“Besides our mela being the biggest Diwali event in the US, you won’t find anything similar even in India,” said Khera.
Over 100,000 people are expected to visit the daylong mela, where the attractions include cultural shows, stalls and free raffles.
Classical and folk dance performances, mainly by children, will be held on one stage, while Bollywood songs and dances will be on the other.
Food vendors, ethnic Indian goods retailers, corporates and NGOs have booked over 80 stalls. A holistic health centre will offer free consultation and check-ups.
The exhibition area will highlight India’s technological growth and economic reforms, as well as contemporary Indian art.
AIA boasts of hosting the first-ever Diwali at White House in 2003 and at Gracie Mansion, New York Mayor’s official residence, the next year.