Emmy-Nominated Film Maker Tirlok Malik Brings Bharat to Life at New York’s Grand Diwali Celebrations

NEW YORK (TIP): Emmy-nominated filmmaker, actor, and Happy Life Yoga speaker Tirlok Malik will once again bring his artistry and passion to the stage this Diwali season, portraying Bharat in two of the most prestigious celebrations in New York—the AIA Diwali Festival at Overlook Beach, Long Island and the Times Square Diwali Celebrations.

Malik has been playing Bharat under the direction and choreography of Pandit S.N. Charkha, Founder of the East-West School of Dance and disciple of Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj, for many years, including seven consecutive years at the Museum of Metropolitan Art’s annual Diwali celebrations in New York to packed audiences. “Pandit Charkha ji has dedicated his life to dance and the arts. To be under his direction is a blessing. When I perform Bharat, I feel completely immersed, almost in a trance, especially during the coronation scene of Lord Rama,” says Malik.

For Malik, Bharat—the devoted brother of Lord Rama in the Ramayana—represents the highest ideals of love, respect, devotion, and sacrifice. “To portray Bharat is not just acting; it is stepping into values that have timeless relevance,” he explains.

The AIA Diwali Festival, now in its 38th year, is the oldest and most respected celebration of its kind in America, led this year by President Bina Kothari and National President Gobind Munjal. The festivities at Overlook Beach will feature fireworks, music, and a spectacular dance drama directed by Pandit Charkha with Malik as Bharat.

The celebrations will continue with the Times Square Diwali Festival, marking its 10th year, created and led by Neeta Bhasin, who has given Diwali a global stage at the very heart of New York City. “What Neeta Bhasin ji has achieved is remarkable—she has made Diwali a part of the world’s most iconic square. Performing Ramayana at Times Square is a historic experience, and it sends a powerful message about the universality of our traditions,” says Malik.

For Malik, the essence of these performances is to bring the message of the Ramayana to audiences in America. “In today’s world, the values that Ramayana represents are needed more than ever. By bringing these stories to New York audiences, we are not just celebrating Diwali—we are reminding ourselves and our children of the values that sustain humanity.”