NEW YORK, NY (TIP): The Association of Indians in America, NY Chapter (AIANY) organized a kick off for the popular South Street Seaport Diwali celebrations. The Consul General of India in New York, Dnyaneshwar Mulay addressed the large gathering in the ornate Ball Room of the Consulate. He characterized Diwali as the most secular festival of India. Mr. Sunil Modi, President of AIA-NY, giving out details about the celebrations, said, “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).

President of AIA, New York Chapter Sunil Modi gave out details of the event

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 igniting the East River which is witnessed by over a million New Yorkers. A popular Bollywood singer of yesteryears, Sharada, regaled the gathering with her soulful singing. The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is the oldest not-for-profit organization of Asian Indians in America founded on August 20, 1967. It is the grassroots national organization of Asian immigrants in the United States. With chapters and membership spread across the United States of America, AIA represents the hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage and American Commitment.