HindiUSA St. Louis hosted a Navratri and Diwali celebration on October 23, 2026, at the Hindu Temple Cultural and Educational Center in Ballwin, Missouri, drawing nearly 500 attendees, according to a statement from the organization.
Students, parents, teachers, and community members gathered for an evening of traditional Indian music, dance, food, and fireworks.
The program began with prayers led by HindiUSA teachers, followed by Garba and Dandiya dancing involving students, parents, and teachers. Activities included Bollywood music, children’s programs, and a raffle. Licensed professionals conducted the fireworks display, the statement said.
Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival honoring the divine feminine, with celebrations that include Garba and Dandiya folk dances. Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Advertisement
According to the organization, the event gave Indian American children an opportunity to participate in cultural traditions and share them with friends and the broader community.
Founded in 2018 with 22 students, HindiUSA St. Louis now serves approximately 240 registered students ages 5 to 18 through weekly Friday evening Hindi classes. Around 40 volunteer teachers and 10 youth volunteers support the school, according to the statement.
The organization also holds cultural celebrations, Hindi poetry competitions, traditional dance events, and youth volunteer programs throughout the year.
HindiUSA St. Louis is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization serving the Greater St. Louis region. The organization said it is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
