In a dazzling display of cultural vibrancy and communal harmony, the Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England orchestrated consecutive Diwali celebrations at the State Houses of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Held on November 15th and 17th, these events brought together eminent dignitaries, philanthropists, and community leaders to revel in the festive splendor of the Festival of Lights.

Rhode Island State House Celebration: November 15, 2023

The Rhode Island State House Deepawali ceremony on November 15th welcomed distinguished guests, including Lt. Governor Sabina Matos, Philanthropist and Jamson Group Hotel Chairman Mr. Dilip Patel, and Rhode Island businessman Mahesh Patel. Spiritual Guru Keshav Sharan, Prof. Dr. Balram Singh, Team Aid Founder Mohan Nannapanni, and IARI former president Amruth Patel added to the luminosity of the occasion.

Lt. Governor Matos inaugurated the celebration by illuminating the ceremonial lamp, emphasizing the United States' core value of cultural diversity, with the Festival of Lights playing a pivotal role. The program featured renditions of the national anthems of the USA and India, accompanied by mesmerizing performances from professional dancers Nivedita and Rituja, and a soul-stirring rendition by singer Vaishnavi.and honored FIA-New England's nominees for their exemplary work.

FIA-New England President Abhishek Singh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate Diwali for the second consecutive year at the Rhode Island State House. The event not only embraced cultural significance but also included impactful community initiatives such as food and blood donation drives, showcasing FIA's commitment to regional welfare.

On the stage, Sanjay Gokhale, FIA-NE Executive VP, presented an overview of FIA's impactful work in the New England region, emphasizing their dedication to fostering cultural understanding and community well-being. The proceedings were skillfully managed by EMCE Rakesh Kavsari, with FIA executives Dipak Rathore, Archana Soni, Waheed Khan honored distinguished guests and thankful to media and community organizations for covering and supporting the celebration. 

Massachusetts State House Celebration: November 17, 2023

Continuing the festive momentum, the Massachusetts State House hosted Diwali celebrations on November 17th, led by State Auditor Diana Diz. Joining her were notable figures, including Leader Bank's founder and chairman Sushil Tuli, Pharmasasis Bhuren Patel, Turf University Professor Anil Saigal, and businessman Sandeep Asija.

State Auditor Dizoglio, in her address, lauded the traditional Indian festivals and classical dance performed by young children, advocating for its inclusion in the Massachusetts state education system. She extended honors to Team Aid founder Mohan Nannapaneni, Johanny Pineyro, Vaishnavi, and Kalaimangai for their exemplary community services.

Community Leader Shri Kaushik Patel, along with FIA executives Shri Anand Sharma and Nikhil Wadhwa, welcomed the dignitaries. Amudha Shri and Pooja Tiwari's dance academy, along with versatile singer Vaishnavi, showcased captivating cultural programs during the celebration. EMCEE duties were expertly handled by Meenakshi Arora.

Expressing gratitude, Amol Penshwar and Ankit Loonia, FIA Executives, extended heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries and attendees for their presence and support, making the Diwali celebrations a resounding success.

These Diwali celebrations stand as a testament to the unity, diversity, and cultural richness in the New England region, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness and community service championed by FIA-New England.

November 11th: Diwali Extravaganza in Taunton, MA for a Noble Cause

On November 11th, another Diwali extravaganza unfolded in Taunton, MA, dedicated to the noble cause of building a community center. The virtual event was graced by the presence of Kennedy scion Joe Kennedy III, who congratulated the Indian-American diaspora on the occasion of Diwali.

Organized by Vrindavan Preservation Society (VPS) and supported by FIA-New England, the event showcased a cricket tournament trophy distribution, with Subu Kota (Chairman of the Boston Group) presenting the honors to Waltham11 Captain Ashok Patel and his team, and Team Khiladi's Captain Nikhil Wadhwa and his team. Neelam Sahani and Priyanka Wadhwa added their blessings as emcees.

The celebration highlighted the commitment to community service and cultural festivities, bringing together diverse communities in the spirit of Diwali.

Please find the link of celebration pictures. 

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZDniXDM5kKfyFFvv-XEepY2hgwYkXmUn?usp=sharing

|