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Indo-American Festivals, Inc. hosts 26th Annual Dushahra Festival in Edison
The 26th Annual Dushahra Festival in Edison attracted over 15,000 attendees with performances and cultural showcases.
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Bhavana P - Mon, 07, Oct 2024
- 14:40 EDT
- 588
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Huge crowd watching Ramleela. / Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal
Indian American community organization, Indo-American Festivals (IAF) hosted its 26th Annual Grand Dushahra Festival on Oct. 5, at Lake Papaianni Park, Edison, New Jersey.
The day-long event celebrated Indian culture and the triumph of good over evil with vibrant performances, family activities, and traditional Indian cuisine.
Festivities commenced with a series of performances curated by Pratibha Nichakawade, featuring 22 song and dance acts. The centerpiece of the day was a ‘Ramleela’ performance, staged by Varsha Naik’s group, with 85 actors ranging from toddlers to seniors.
Ramleela Scene of Seeta Swayamvar / Image - IAF/ Raj MittalFor the second consecutive year, the event featured a 15-foot Hanuman idol, the largest of its kind at any Dushahra Festival in the U.S., along with a special ‘Maha Aarti’.
15 feet Tall Hanuman Idol / Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal
The day’s events culminated with the ‘Ravan Dahan’, the burning of a 25-foot-tall effigy of Ravan, symbolizing the victory of Lord Ram. The effigy, crafted by Krishna Singhal, captivated the audience as it was set ablaze to conclude the celebration.
Ravana Effigy / Image - IAF/ Raj MittalAttendees enjoyed a wide array of Indian and fusion delicacies from vendors like Vatan, and the ‘Meena Bazaar’ offered over 150 stalls selling traditional clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. A free health screening camp, organized by the Agarwal Samaj of the USA, was also provided.
Esteemed guests included Edison Councilman Ajay Patil and Grammy Award-winning artist Falguni Shah. The event was supported by numerous sponsors and volunteers, with a grant from the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey State Council for the Arts.
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