On Thursday, November 14, Parker Jewish Institute’s Indian Cultural Unit hosted its annual Diwali celebration, transforming the facility’s auditorium into a vibrant and festive space filled with lights and traditional decorations.
The event brought together residents, families, and community members to celebrate one of the most cherished holidays in Indian culture. The program kicked off with the traditional Diya lighting ceremony, a symbol of hope, knowledge, and the triumph of light over darkness. Priestess Brahmacharini Shubhani Chaitanya from Chinmaya Mission New York and Acharya Madan Sharma from AsaM’ai Temple in Hicksville led the ceremony, joined by distinguished guests including Dr. Saroj Shah, Dr. Ramsing Pardeshi, Mr. and Mrs. Tolat, Dr. Hira Lal Patel, Dr. Harshad Shah, and Parker staff members Rachel Dalton, MaryKate Tusinski, and Sujata Seth.
The celebration continued with an array of lively performances. Residents delighted in musical renditions as they sang traditional songs, while Nupur Arora captivated the audience with folk tales and poetry. Renowned singer Jyoti Gupta performed devotional bhajans, inviting everyone to clap along in unison. Bhavna Punjwani enchanted attendees with her colorful folk and Bollywood dance performances, creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement. Guests were also treated to henna designs by Saima Latif and indulged in delicious Indian sweets from RAJBHOG Sweets, completing the sensory experience of the day.
This festive event is a reflection of Parker Jewish Institute’s ongoing commitment to honoring cultural traditions, particularly through its Indian Cultural Unit. Situated on the facility’s fourth floor, this special unit offers daily Indian meals, TV shows in Indian languages, and even a dedicated temple space for spiritual practices. The unit is staffed with individuals who speak a variety of South Asian languages, ensuring that residents feel at home. The lobby is adorned with a calming mural by New York architect Dinesh Joshi, which helps create a temple-like atmosphere for religious, spiritual, and musical programs that take place daily.
Parker Jewish Institute’s celebration of Diwali demonstrates its dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for South Asian residents and their families. By honoring cultural traditions, Parker fosters a sense of community, respect, and belonging for all.
(Used with permission)
