Diwali at Times Square 2016

Diwali at Times Square 2016 is over but the memory of it will last a lifetime for many. Creating history third time in a row, it is a celebration unlike any other. It showcased the rich and diverse elegance of the Indian culture with credibility, creativity, and celebrity. It honored the tradition of this happy holiday, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair. The event had performances by young artists, differently abled kids, well-known celebrities, regional cultural dance performances from various states of India, a spectacular digital Diya lighting on one of the biggest Times Square screens followed by a special message from the Indian prime minister Mr. Narendra Modi and the launch of the U. S. Postal Service commemorative Diwali Stamp.

The Indian Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s message for Diwali at Times Square Oct 16, 2016

Dignitaries from India and US like US Senator Chuck Schumer, US Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Indian Ambassador to the UN Syed Akbaruddin, Consul General Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and former Indian representative to the UN, Hardeep Singh Puri, graced the event with their presence and conveyed their Diwali greetings.

Morning Diya Lighting Ceremony 

International voice sensation Arjun rocked the stage. Television celebrities like Kumkum Bhagya fame Shabir who plays Abhi and Sriti who plays Pragya greeted fans. Saregamapa 2016 winner Kushal Paul and soulful singer Jyotica Tangri mesmerized us with their music, So You Think You Can Dance fame Kanchi Shah and Dance India Dance fame Siddhesh Pai gave all their energy to the stage, and heartthrob Karan Tacker stole the affections of many.

People from all ethnicities were seen shaking their legs on Indian Bhangra tunes. Selected audience members even enjoyed the opportunity to dance on stage with their favorite celebrities, but the stand out act came from Sparsh Shah, a young singing sensation who performed “Jai Ho” to everyone’s delight. The event, hosted by the handsome Karan Tacker and local host Monty, showcased the rich traditions of the Indian culture. It was showered with love and blessings from across the world.

Attendees from all over the world at Diwali at Times Square Oct 16, 2016

Event Guru’s CEO, Mrs. Neeta Bhasin, said, "Diwali at Times Square is not just a grand celebration of the festival of lights but also a beautiful display of our community and its roots. Our main focus this year was to give a platform to young Indian talent, both from India and US, as they represent our future and will carry forward our culture for years to come.”

New York’s largest South Asian ethnic event, Diwali at Times Square 2016, was presented by &TV and was powered by Air India and Sling International.