NEW YORK CITY (TIP):    Times Square in New York City appears to be a favorite spot with Indian Americans for showcasing culture and tradition of India. Close on the heels of the Diwali At Times Square, the Association of Indians in America-NY held a “Deepavali 2021” Diya-lighting ceremony November 4 evening at Times Square, in front of Nasdaq stock exchange. The diya-lighting ceremony was led by Ambassador Randhir Kumar Jaiswal, India’s Consul General in New York.  New York State Senator John Liu, a longtime friend of the Indian American community also joined, as also a few community leaders. Harish Thakkar, president of AIA– NY, said “This Diwali is going to be very different from all the others we have ever experienced.”

He was referring to the traditional celebration of Diwali  at the South Street Seaport, a landmark event of AIA-NY, enjoyed by thousands of spectators every year.

This time, AIA NY, Diwali messages were displayed on the   Nasdaq Billboard for a couple of hours.

“Diwali is the celebration of light and so, coming at a time of darkness, when there seem to be many sad stories of bereavement, sickness and financial hardship all caused by a virus, we need to ensure that our inner light stays ignited,” State Senator Liu said.

“Instead of thinking of ‘Corona, it’s a time to share compassion, love and care with everyone around us,” Liu added.

He also said he had attended many AIA Diwali festival events at South Street Seaport.

Consul General Jaiswal extended his warmest wishes to everyone and said that Diwali “truly brightens our evenings as we unite to celebrate the festival of lights that marks the triumph of good over evil, and   light over darkness. Diwali’s central message of openness, peace and mutual respect is one we can all learn from.”

Ambassador Jaiswal praised AIA as a grassroots national organization well known for its social, cultural and educational activities, organizing the largest Deepavali festival in NYC for the past 32 years.