The Sanasani Dance Group members undergo their paces throughout a sensational efficiency on the Annual Diwali Competition in Richmond Hill, Queens.
Picture by Tangerine Clarke
A radiant burst of coloration and joyfulness got here alive on the Nov. 4 Diwali celebration in Richmond Hill, Queens, after the competition was virtually sidelined by controversy and a protest rally that referred to as for the organizer to be ousted.
The a whole bunch of spectators and celebrants who defied the heated disagreement and packed the seating space surrounding the cultural stage present on the intersection of Liberty Avenue and Lefferts Blvd., little question took to coronary heart the symbolism of the religious victory of Mild Over Darkness, and data over ignorance, fostering unity and togetherness within the Hindu faith.
The occasion that kicked-off at 4 p.m. with vendor cubicles of meals, sponsors, and celebratory objects alongside a block of Liberty, and continued in opposition to a backdrop of “Completely happy Diwali” went on with a loud showcase. The melodious voices of the little Gods and Goddesses, that includes the Nationwide youngsters’s Cultural Basis Inc., and others, singing bhajan songs, and riveting choreography, set the tone for an exquisite observance.
Celebrants who have been wearing bejeweled Indian regalia, confirmed assist for the competition, coming collectively in unity, with loud applause for the artistes who lit up the stage with their performances.
Punctuated by the lighting of the Diyas by members of the Divya Jyoti Affiliation of New York, the present went on with singing, dancing, and the beats of rhythmic Tassa drumming. A parade of God and Goddesses introduced magnificence, and pleasure to the historic occasion.
Three bejeweled Diwali Goddesses have been introduced with financial prizes, from Sanjay Maharaj Occasions throughout the enchanting competition, that acquired reward from the pandit in attendance, who thanked organizers for the profitable presentation.
Co-emcees Magnificence Queen Miss Lotus 2023 Saleena Ram and Dev Dilchan delighted the viewers bringing to the stage, versatile, and Bollywood-style performers Sanasani Dance Group, who, amongst different proficient dancers placed on an distinctive efficiency.
Diwali the competition of lights, now, formally a New York Metropolis public college vacation signed into legislation by Mayor Eric Adams, and takes impact in 2024, was praised for bringing the neighborhood collectively.
Guyanese-born Richard David, District 31 chief, expressed gratitude to organizers. I do know numerous you recognize what has been happening in our neighborhood, he stated, in reference to the disagreement, including, “it’s unbelievable to see this wonderful crowd. The organizers went by means of a tough time to get right here to verify we get Diwali in our neighborhood.”
“I’m so grateful to the organizers for creating this expertise for folks like me and for younger children who’re wanting ahead to celebrating tradition and faith and being collectively. Mild at all times wins out over darkness, he stated, including that this 12 months is further particular, as a result of Diwali turns into a public-school vacation in New York.
“Due to Lakshmee Singh and all of the folks, and the Mandirs who put this collectively. Thanks for popping out. Thanks for making Little Guyana an exquisite place I name house,” stated David.
Lakshmee Singh, in flip, thanked everybody who supported Diwali 2023, saying her favourite a part of the occasion was the parade of the Gods & Goddesses on Liberty Avenue. “I need to want everybody a cheerful Diwali, could Mom Lakshmi come into your houses, convey you mild, wealth, happiness, and well being, Sitaram!,” she stated.
