AIA Deepavali at the South Street Seaport drew huge crowds

NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The Association of Indians in America, NY Chapter (AIA-NY) celebrated their 29th Annual Deepavali Festival at the South Street Seaport in New York City on Sunday October 2nd, 2016 from 12 noon till 7pm.

The event was attended by thousands of people throughout the day that enjoyed Indian culture, food, heritage, live performances and a spectacular display of Live Fireworks. Deepavali was a full day extravaganza with highlight performances by North American artist Mickey Singh & The Jungle Book actor, Neel Sethi.

The highly sought after inter-collegiate dance competition, Naach Inferno, in its third year saw first-time entrants Rutgers Bhangra as their winner this year. Arya International interacted the audience with Bollywood moves and made the entire crowd dance. Mickey Singh had the entire youth audience along with their families light up South Street Seaport with glow sticks, cheers and hands up in the air. Neel Sethi interacted with the audience and answered questions on how he became Hollywood’s most adorable and successful new star. Numerous local performing arts schools and academies also showcased their talents on both stages throughout the day. This year, Deepavali also marked the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. There was a special tribute for Gandhiji along with an Essay & Drawing Competition for the youth to showcase the importance and meaning of Peace. Winners of the competitions were acknowledged and awarded by Neel Sethi on stage in front of the audience. The event culminated with a VIP Hour which was attended by Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, Counsel General of India in NY; Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer; Public Advocate Letitia James among many other business leaders and community leaders of the Indian American community in NY. Live Fireworks sponsored by CheapOair & Qatar Airways from the East River illuminated the New York City skyline and served as the Grand Finale.

This year, support from sponsors such as CheapOAir.com, Qatar Airways, Toyota, Pepsi, New York Life, Swan Club, MoneyGram, Kotak Bank, New York Life, HAB Bank, Navika Capital, Star Plus, Sony Entertainment, Jus Punjabi, TV Asia amongst many others have helped made the event possible.

The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is one of 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.