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Thousands attend AIA-NY’s 38th Diwali Festival
Long Island’s shores come alive as AIA-NY’s annual celebration draws record crowds with culture, devotion, and fireworks.
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Staff Reporter - Wed, 15, Oct 2025
- 11:20 EDT
- 22
An estimated 5,000 people visited the celebration throughout the day, as per the organizers / Courtesy: AIA-NY
The Association of Indians in America, New York Chapter (AIA-NY), drew thousands to Overlook Beach on Oct. 11 for its 38th Diwali Festival.
The day-long celebration of culture, faith, and community, hosted on Long Island for the first time, featured a mix of cultural performances, spiritual presentations, traditional cuisine, and a grand fireworks display that lit up the South Shore.
Dignitaries and public officials extended their support and appreciation. Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer, impressed by the turnout, announced the town’s backing for next year’s event.
Also Read: Light and Belonging: Houston’s Diwali brings home a culture across continents
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam attended in person, while U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer sent a video message congratulating AIA-NY.
Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar lauded New York’s role in setting a precedent for making Diwali a public holiday, now followed by other U.S. states.
Representing the Consulate General of India in New York, Consul (Community Affairs) Tsewang Gyaltson conveyed greetings on behalf of Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan.
Attendees described the atmosphere as both festive and deeply rooted in tradition. “This event was a dream come true—promoting culture, unity, and community engagement,” said AIA-NY president Beena Kothari, crediting the team’s effort and local partnerships for making the large-scale celebration possible.
The program began with the American and Indian national anthems and a flag ceremony, followed by an expansive cultural lineup. Highlights included a 'Kirtan Concert' by Bhakti Marga, a 'Ramayan Live' dance drama choreographed by Pt. S.N. Charka of the East-West School of Dance, and a cultural fashion showcase by designer Prashant Goyal.
Later in the evening, Manpreet Komal and Amit Sharma of 'Rang de Bollywood' led a spirited 'garba' performance, keeping the crowd dancing until the fireworks finale.
The festival’s family-oriented programming featured classical and folk dance showcases, rangoli and art contests, yoga and Zumba sessions, and a wellness zone. Vendors and food stalls reported brisk business throughout the day.
The celebration also honored Justice Karen Gopee, Gurmohan Syali, Abhay Malhotra, and Sunita Sadhnani for their community contributions. Special recognition was given to Indian artisan Ruma Devi and musician Kamal Sabri.
Kothari thanked the organizing team, sponsors, and volunteers for their support, acknowledging emcee Neha Lohia and cultural coordinators Gautam Chopra, Kulbhushan Sharma, and Jyoti Gupta. “This year’s celebration reflected the strength of collaboration and the growing spirit of cultural unity on Long Island,” she said.
The event concluded with a 'Lakshmi Aarti,' symbolizing prosperity and gratitude.
A spectacular live fireworks display lit up Long Island’s south shore, concluding the program / Courtesy: AIA-NYFounded in 1967, the Association of Indians in America remains the oldest Indian community organization in the U.S., upholding its motto—'Indian Heritage, American Commitment.'
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