On Sunday 22nd November, Chinmaya Mission Boston connected over 300 households in the Greater Boston Area for a magnificent evening of festivities in its first ever Virtual Diwali Gala and Fundraiser. The theme was based on Mahatma Gandhi’s powerful and timeless declaration: “be the change you wish to see in this world!”. 

The event kicked off with powerful reflections from the dynamic resident acharya of CM Dallas, Swami Sarveshanandaji. He brought Mahatma Gandhi’s ancient wisdom into our lives today by showing us how to see the pandemic as an opportunity to learn and grow. This message dovetailed delightfully with subsequent videos showcasing CM Boston’s diverse range of activities across its chapters in Andover, Metro West, Newton, and New Hampshire. From young children acting in a Bala Vihar play to CHYK youths congregating for weekly Bhagavad Gita discussion to families packing food for a homeless shelter, we saw how seekers of all ages can “be the change” and become positive contributors to society. 

Viewers were then treated to an engrossing dialogue between Dr. Shashi Dwarakanath and Padma Shri Smt. Sudha Murty, chairperson of Infosys Foundation who has dedicated her life to selflessly serving underprivileged sections of society in rural India. Sudhaji’s life story is simply awe-inspiring. At one point she shared: “philanthropy means loving fellow human beings”; with this single-pointed vision, she founded Infosys Foundation in 1996. It was a conversation that no one wanted to end. But the event organizers had one more surprise in store. 

The night was capped off with a beautiful performance from Boston-based award-winning Bollywood playback singer, Mrs. Anuradha Palakurthi, founder of Juju Productions. She brought the love of Lord Rama & Sita into our hearts with a melodic performance that transported us to Ayodhya to witness the rows of oil lamps that marked the return of hope and prosperity.

A lot has been different this year, but one thing that remained consistent is the joy, love, and inspiration felt during Diwali. You can watch the event recording on YouTube by clicking on this link. It is not too late for you to contribute to the vision of “be the change” by making a donation here to support the continued growth of Chinmaya Mission Boston. Donations of any amount are welcome. 

Hari Om!