“Festival of Lights,” with Punjabi touch
(Left) A skit from a dance performance.
Over 400 people gathered for a joyous celebration of Diwali at Ashiana Banquet Hall in Global Mall, Norcross, GA on Friday, October 24, 2014. The Greater Atlanta Punjabi Society along with the Indian American Cultural Association organized this annual event.
Diwali, the "Festival of Lights," is a time of great celebration and joy in India and South Asia, and one of the most celebrated events in the Hindu calendar, as important to Hindus as Christmas is to Christians. Its name comes from the row of clay lamps that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects them from spiritual darkness.
High energy performance of Zumba, a popular dance cum exercise routine, was led by Sheila Devlia of 'Z Fitness With Sheila' accompanied by Hema Vishwanathan and Prina Patel.
Celebration began with a prayer service, Lakshmi Ji Aarti Puja, by the ladies from the community. The cultural program included traditional Punjabi folk dances, Bollywood medleys, and fusion dances. It was an evening to enjoy the splendor, decoration, and enticing solo and group performances along with a plateful of delicious appetizers and a drink of your choice.
The program had awesome sponsors, raffle items, and the final prize of $1500 credit towards a diamond ring was eagerly awaited by the patrons. The DJ had foot-tapping Indian numbers—Punjabi and Bollywood songs which the audience lapped up and danced to until past midnight. A lavish spread of sumptuous North Indian food and a grand stall of Indian sweets had everyone wanting more. Ash Chandler, an all-in-one entertainer, was a surprise item in the program and icing on the cake.
(Left) Ambassador Ajit Kumar, Consul General of India in Atlanta, addressing the gathering.
Ambassador Ajit Kumar, the Consul General in Atlanta, graced the occasion and mentioned that this was his 4th annual Diwali program in Atlanta and he is always encouraged by the audience response, dazzling performances, and great organization. He was happy to note that the Indian culture continues to grow strong with the younger generation participating with enthusiasm.
It was a festive atmosphere and everyone had a great time wishing each other Happy Diwali, enjoying the program, delicious food, and a very well organized function.
(Below) Executive Committee members of Greater Atlanta Punjabi Society.
Website Bonus Feature
Videos:
Several videos of dances choreographed and performed at this event by Sagnika Mukherjee:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWEVnae6XcbwDEXAA0HjG8A
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