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Thousands gathered at Times Square and venues across New York for Diwali celebrations. The events underscored diaspora unity and the depth of India-United States cultural ties.
Image used for representational purposes only
Newyork,Oct 27, 2026 12:38 IST
Diwali celebrations have begun across New York City, with cultural events at Times Square and culinary showcases featuring Indian cuisine bringing communities together for the festival of lights, news agency Press Trust of India reported.
Thousands of members of the Indian and South Asian diaspora gathered at Times Square on Sunday for a day-long cultural programme, while other venues across the city hosted events highlighting India's cultural and culinary diversity.
The 2026 edition of 'Diwali at Times Square' featured a 'Diwali Bazaar', a diya-lighting ceremony, a virtual Diwali countdown at the One Times Square Ball Drop Tower and the 'Light Up Times Square Concert'. American rapper and songwriter Raja Kumari, singer Kanika Kapoor and other artists performed at the event.
Consul General of India in New York Binaya Pradhan joined members of the Indian-American community and other Americans at the Times Square celebrations.
The festivities were a "vibrant celebration of peace, hope and harmony in the heart of New York City. The festivities celebrated the enduring people-to-people ties that bring India and the United States closer," the Indian Consulate said in a social media post.
Neeta Bhasin, founder and organiser of Diwali at Times Square and a member of the New York State Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission, told PTI that the event aimed to promote peace, harmony and unity while showcasing India's art, culture and diversity.
"This celebration is about peace, harmony, and unity. That is the true message of Diwali. And from this biggest platform in the world, Times Square, we are showcasing the art, culture, and diversity of India," Bhasin said.
According to the organisers, Diwali at Times Square has brought the spirit of the festival of lights to the "crossroads of the world" since it began in 2013, providing a platform to celebrate unity, cultural heritage and diversity.
Sibu Nair, director of Asian American Affairs for New York Governor Kathy Hochul, said it was a proud moment to represent the governor at the event and celebrate Diwali with members of the diaspora who had travelled from across the state to share their culture, food and music.
The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, also hosted a Diwali event attended by prominent members of the Indian-American and global community. It collaborated with three popular New York restaurants — 'Chatti', 'Junoon' and 'Musaafer' — for a specially curated 'Culinary Journey Through India', offering guests a "celebration of regional flavours" from across the country.
Through cultural performances, community gatherings and food showcases, the events brought New York's Indian and South Asian communities together to celebrate Diwali and highlight India's cultural diversity.
With PTI Inputs
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