The Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) – New England, in collaboration with the Indian-American community, hosted its annual Diwali Celebration at the Rhode Island State House on Friday, October 17, 2025. The event was graced by Governor Daniel McKee as the Chief Guest, who joined other dignitaries for the auspicious lamp lighting ceremony, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

During his address, Governor McKee extended Diwali and holiday season greetings to all attendees and lauded the Indian-American community for its enduring commitment to service. He highlighted the importance of community-driven initiatives like food donation drives, especially in light of potential government shutdowns, which may lead to cutbacks in funding and suspension of critical programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), noted a statement from FIA. 

“If benefits are denied and programs like SNAP are impacted, it is community efforts like FIA’s food donation drives that will become lifelines for the needy,” said Governor McKee. He urged everyone to “double down on service and compassion” during these uncertain times.

The Governor also commended the FIA for leading such efforts consistently over the years and officially kicked off FIA’s Diwali/Holiday Season Food Drive, which aims to donate over 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food items across Rhode Island and the New England region within the next month.

As part of the ceremony, Governor McKee honored two distinguished Indian-Americans:

• Subrata Das, for his outstanding contributions to performance art and theater over more than two decades.
• Mohan Nannapaneni, recognized for his extraordinary humanitarian service benefiting communities both locally and globally.

The Governor also presented a special citation to the entire FIA Executive Team, led by President Abhishek Singh, acknowledging their continued dedication to volunteerism and community service. The citation noted FIA’s diverse programs throughout the year, including:

Blood and food donation drives; Adopt-a-Highway clean-up programs; Indian Consular Camps; July 4th, Veterans Day, 9/11 Remembrance events; Martyrs Vigils, India Day, International; Women’s Day, Yoga Day; and Participation in the Boston Marathon. 

In his welcome remarks, FIA President Abhishek Singh encouraged the community to embrace the deeper meaning of Diwali, beyond the celebration. 

“As we gather here, let’s not only relish in the festivity but take a moment to show the unity that binds us,” said Singh. “It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spreading the warmth of our love and kindness.”

The celebration saw the presence of many notable dignitaries and community leaders, including Ram Nehara (Founder, Ekal – Rhode Island); Mahesh Patel (Founder, Indian Community Center – RI); Kaushik Patel (President, VHPA); Sandeep Asija (Entrepreneur); Nilesh Agarwal (President, IAGB); Srinivas Gondi (President, TAGB); and Ravi Sarin. 

FIA-New England Executive Team Nikhil Wadhwa, Anand Sharma, Hiten Bhavsar, Deepti Kavsari, Archana Soni, Divya Prakash, Hardik Patel, Nikunj Doshi, Mohan Sonti, and Santosh Thawani were present on the occasion. 

In his vote of thanks, Vice President of FIA-New England, Rakesh Kumar, and Secretary of FIA-New England, Amol, expressed their sincere gratitude to Governor McKee, dignitaries, performers, and all attendees. They reaffirmed FIA’s mission of service and announced the organization’s ambitious plan to donate over 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food within a month to support families across Rhode Island and New England.

“Service is the true spirit of Diwali,” said Rakesh Kumar. “And we are determined to spread that light to every corner of our community.”

The event commenced with a heartfelt rendition of the Indian and American National Anthems by Sonali Doshi while Mitesh Soni served as the emcee. At the event, Maharshi Kondvilkar delivered a classical performance. Kalakaar Indian Classical Performing Arts, Padmini Dance Academy and Dancing Divas Performing Arts brought vibrant dance sequences to life.

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FIA-NE’s 4th International India Day Parade Unites Communities in Celebration of Freedom, Unity, and Heritage Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Lt. Governor Aruna Miller Celebrate Diwali with the South Asian Community  FIA New England Celebrates 249th U.S. Independence Day to Recognize War Veterans  Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Officially Designates Diwali as a State Holiday