Diwali Festival of Lights Celebrated in New York — Community Leaders Honored at NAVA & South Asians of New York Event
Progga News Desk:
To celebrate unity among New York’s vibrant South Asian community, the New American Voters Association (NAVA) and South Asians of New York jointly hosted a grand “Diwali Festival of Lights” on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 6 PM. The colorful celebration took place amid great enthusiasm and festive cheer.
Distinguished elected officials attended as special guests, including Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Congresswoman Grace Meng, New York State Senator John C. Liu, New York State Assembly Members Steven Raga, Nily Rozic and David Weprin, New York City Council Members Shekar Krishnan, Linda Lee and Julie Won, along with District Leader Dr. Dilip Nath.
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the Diya by the guests and faith leaders, symbolizing peace, unity, and the triumph of light over darkness.
The evening featured welcome remarks, national anthems, and cultural performances by Taiba Ahmad, Executive Director of NAVA, along with Arya Sarkar, Ritvika Banerjee, Ritaja Banerjee, Debarati Chowdhury, Rimjhim Das, Anindita Bhattacharya, Shiva BK and team (traditional Nepali dance), and Akal Gatka Gurumat Group (Punjabi Bhangra dance).
Highlighting the significance of Diwali, Dr. Bindu Babu said, “The victory of light over darkness is a timeless message of humanity.”
Special community recognition awards were presented to -
Malini Saha ,Somanath Ghimire, President, GPK Foundation America , Harshad Patel, President, Gujarati Samaj , Bangladesh Puja Samiti
In his closing remarks, NAVA Vice President Nabaraj K.C. extended heartfelt thanks to all guests, partner organizations, and volunteers, reaffirming the commitment to nurturing leadership among the future generations of the South Asian diaspora.
As in previous years, the Diwali Festival of Lights shone brightly—promoting cooperation, harmony, and the beauty of multicultural coexistence in New York.
