The Indian community in Franklin celebrated Diwali – “a festival of lights” on November 16th  at Hopedale Union church. Diwali or Deepavali literally translated as a “row of lamps” is the most important festival celebrated by Hindus all over the world. It signifies the triumph of good over evil and lamps are lit to take away darkness and fill our hearts with love and enlightenment.

A group of women decided to bring the Indian community to meet, greet and celebrate this festival of lights together with the idea of involving teenagers to run most of the stations. The setting up of the hall was done by high school students, Anirudh, Abhiram and Sanjay. They also set up the sound system and were the main emcees for the program. All decorations were done by teenagers Samiha and Mahita. Henna tattoo and face painting stations were set up and done by Ruchira, Lipi, Sreeja, Samiha, Mahita and Brinda. There were two stations with jewelry and clothes display .  Traditional dances called garbha and dandia were done by women dressed in colorful clothes.  We also danced to upbeat and fun bollywood music. Delicious food from yummy appetizers to mouth-watering desserts were served at the party. After dinner we played bingo which is also a diwali tradition in some parts of India.

All in all this party was well attended by over 160 people and also by State Representative for the 10th Norfolk district of Massachusetts, Jeffery Roy. We had a great time and enjoyed meeting everyone.

Some comments from the attendees:

I had a fun time at the Diwali Party & I got to eat yummy Indian treats!  - Sanjana Venkatraman - 5th grade

I loved the food and party but most of all I loved henna tattoo on my hands, it was cool. – Nidhi Bhakta

I enjoyed the party but most of all I enjoyed playing Bingo with everyone. – Saahil Bhakta  - 5th grade

It was a great cultural experience and a very enjoyable way to celebrate Diwali with friends. - Anirudh - 10th grade

I loved the party and my favorite part was being a Bingo Caller !! It was a very fun night.  – Rutvik Parikh - Grade 4

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