NEW YORK (TIP): The Association of Indians in America, NY Chapter (AIA-NY) hosts its 26th Annual Deepavali at South Street Seaport on October 6th, 2013 from 12 noon till 8pm (Fireworks at 7pm). Generally this event attracts 75,000 – 100,000 people from all corners of the tristate area. The weather forecast for Sunday October 6 is sunny 65 to 80 degrees, winds 9 mph. Given all the new things AIA has added to their event this year (see below), nice weather and the newly renovated pier 16 and a brand new pier 15, the turnout could easily go into 100,000 to 150,000 people. The Hindu Festival of Deepavali meaning ‘A row of lamps’ is also popularly known as Diwali, or ‘Festival of Lights’.

It signifies the triumph of ‘Good over Evil’. The festival is a full day celebration with numerous booths, vendors, performances and activities for the whole family including a live grand display of fireworks. At the Oct 6 event the Ambassador of Bhangra, DJ Rekha will lead the audience at 5 PM into an official Guinness World Record breaking attempt for the largest Bhangra party ever. With the ‘Main Bhi Star’ contest, participants get a chance to act on the big screen as they audition with leading lady Pankhuri (Disha Parmar) of popular Star Plus soap, Pyaar Ka Dard Hai…Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara. Another attraction this year is Omi Vaidya (Chatur from 3 Idiots) who will be entertaining the masses with an exclusive comedy act at 4 PM.

Live Ramleela is on at 2:00 PM on the main stage. Famous singer Sharada is unveiling an exciting “Masti Ho” to curb childhood obesity with her live entertainment for children and then later a few melodies like “Jab bhi ye dil udaas hota hai”, and “Duniya ki sair karlo” for grown up audiences. Health fair booth shall have free screenings and free give aways. Mouth-watering delicacies from India, a designated area for Children, a holistic Health Fair, breath-taking performances in addition to a splendor showcase of Indian culture, arts and crafts, jewelry, traditional clothes and an evening of music and dance are some of the highlights that AIA-NY’s 26th Deepavali brings this year. The grand finale of the evening is the display of live Fireworks at 7:15 igniting the East River which is witnessed by over a million New Yorkers.