Malden Bhakta Vrinda witnessed grand celebrations of Diwali and Govardhan Puja (New Year) during the Diwali weekend. Festivities for Diwali began last Saturday and more than 350 guests started streaming in for the occasion to celebrate Diwali – Lord Ram’s arrival after conquering the evil. With make shift temple created in the Malden Knights of Columbus looked very festive and lively with splendid floral decorations. Main altar was decorated with colorful saris, many diyas & electric lamps and glittering curtains forming a backdrop for the deities of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar adorned in the finest colored outfits. Sri Sri Giri Govardhan was perched on Govardhan Hill made with sweets prepared by the volunteers. All the celebrants were spotted in traditional clothes. The event included kids fancy dress, talent show by kids, Ram lila dance, prayers, worship, singing and food supplied and cooked by volunteers. The program embarked on the perfect note with ecstatic musical meditation by HG Sughosh Das and local youth group. An insightful and eye pleasing dance presentation on the significance of the Diwali and lights with pastimes of Lord Rama by Mohini Chacon set in a divine atmosphere for the evening. Devotees eagerly waiting in a tightly packed hall were not disappointed when the worship finally opened for public. Every attendant got an opportunity to do all parts of the worship which included Maha Abhiseka of Sri Sri Gopal, Damodarastakam (Offering of lamp to Lord Damodar), flower offerings to Radha Shyamsundar, circumambulation of Govardhana Hill. The candlelight aarti was accompanied by roaring kirtan, immersed everyone present in bliss. A scrumptious vegetarian feast perfectly completed the evening.

Although Malden Bhakta Vrinda is in their second year of formation and celebration of Diwali could manage to get Mayor of Malden City Gary Christensen as a chief guest. The revelers were enthralled by the easy going Mayor Gary Christenson demeanor and support during the event who not only stayed for the entire function but also took part in all worships and even tasted the food. The event witnessed some curious western guests, local school teachers, principals, western musicians, newspaper correspondents & more importantly the large Indian community that made the festival grand and special.

|