Image Credit: Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal
Edison, New Jersey — The Indian American community gathered at Lake Papaianni Park for the 26th Annual Grand Dushahra Festival, hosted by Indo-American Festivals (IAF).
The day-long event featured traditional Indian performances, cultural activities, and family entertainment, marking the triumph of good over evil and celebrating Indian heritage.
Image Credit: Image - IAF/ Raj Mittal
The festivities began with a series of performances curated by Pratibha Nichakawade, showcasing 22 song and dance acts that set the tone for the day.
One of the main attractions was the ‘Ramleela’ play, organized by Varsha Naik’s group, which featured 85 actors, including participants of all ages.
A highlight of the festival was the unveiling of a 15-foot Hanuman idol, the largest of its kind at any Dushahra Festival in the U.S., accompanied by a special ‘Maha Aarti.’
The event concluded with a dramatic ‘Ravan Dahan,’ where a 25-foot-tall effigy of Ravan, crafted by Krishna Singhal, was set ablaze, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
In addition to the cultural displays, the ‘Meena Bazaar’ featured over 150 stalls offering traditional clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts, while attendees enjoyed Indian and fusion cuisine from various vendors.
A free health screening camp, organized by the Agarwal Samaj of the USA, was also available for visitors.
“Seeing the community come together to celebrate our culture and traditions makes this event special every year,” shared Edison Councilman Ajay Patil, an esteemed guest at the festival.
The event, which included Grammy-winning artist Falguni Shah, was supported by several sponsors, along with a grant from the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey State Council for the Arts.