• FIA New England celebrates Diwali at the Rhode Island State House.
• Congressman Gabe Amo and Consul General Raghuram S. attend the event.
• Organisation launches donation of more than 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food.
• Four-year tradition combines Diwali celebrations with community service.

GG News Bureau
PROVIDENCE, R.I., 9th Nov: The Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England marked Diwali at the Rhode Island State House with a celebration of culture, community service and giving, culminating in the launch of a donation of more than 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food for families across the state.

Held on Friday afternoon, the organisation’s annual Diwali Celebration and Food Donation Ceremony brought together elected representatives, government officials, community leaders and Indian-American families at the Governor’s Executive Hall.

The historic hall was decorated with saffron and red drapes, marigold garlands, lights, a colourful rangoli and traditional brass lamps. Guests attended in traditional Indian attire, including saris, sherwanis and kurtas.

FIA New England President Abhishek Singh welcomed the dignitaries and community members. The programme featured the traditional Lighting of the Lamp and the Food Donation Kickoff Ceremony.

Dignitaries join the celebration
Among those attending were Congressman Gabe Amo, representing Rhode Island’s First Congressional District; Consul General of India in Boston Raghuram S.; East Providence Mayor Roberto “Bob” DaSilva; Lincoln Town Administrator Philip G. Gould; and Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Abhulime, representing Governor Dan McKee.

Kassandra Florez, Community Affairs Director for US Senator Jack Reed, also attended, along with Victor Mazurenko, Director at Fidelity Financial; Jermie Thompson, Vice President and Business Banker at First Citizens Bank; Mervat Khalil, Board Member of the YMCA of Rhode Island; and community leaders Ram and Meetu Gupta.

The programme, hosted by Jyoti Singh, highlighted the significance of Diwali as a festival celebrating the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It opened with a traditional aarti and lamp-lighting ceremony, with dignitaries and guests praying for peace, health and prosperity.

Leaders underline the spirit of service
Congressman Gabe Amo praised the Indian-American community for combining cultural celebrations with humanitarian service. He said a celebration with a purpose was commendable and described empathy and compassion for people in need as among the most meaningful forms of charitable work.

Consul General of India in Boston Raghuram S. extended Diwali greetings and invited lawmakers to work with the Consulate to strengthen bilateral relations. He also acknowledged the Indian-American community’s humanitarian contributions during the pandemic under FIA New England’s leadership and commended the organisation for its community service.

East Providence Mayor Roberto “Bob” DaSilva referred to the story of Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom and the establishment of truth and justice. As he begins his third term as mayor, DaSilva pledged to continue serving needy families in the community.

Lincoln Town Administrator Philip G. Gould recalled FIA New England’s assistance during last year’s disruption of SNAP benefits. He said the organisation’s food donation had reached every food pantry in Lincoln and helped families facing hardship.

FIA New England President Abhishek Singh said the message of Diwali extended beyond lighting lamps at home. He described the festival’s deeper meaning as bringing light into the lives of people who need support, adding that individual acts of service together could make a difference in the community.

Cultural performances bring Ramayana to life
The celebration also featured cultural performances led by choreographer and dance guru Nivedita Chakraborty of the Kalakar Group, along with Pooja Tiwari and Padmini Dey and their teams.

One of the highlights was a performance by children depicting episodes from the Ramayana. Dressed as Lord Rama, Sita, Hanuman and members of the vanar sena, the young participants received warm applause from the audience.

FIA honours community partners
During the felicitation ceremony, FIA New England recognised dignitaries and community partners for their service and contributions.

The community also paid tribute to Governor Dan McKee for his friendship and support for the Indian-American community and families in need across Rhode Island.

More than 20,000 pounds of food for families
The event concluded with the launch of FIA New England’s donation of more than 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food items.

Singh acknowledged the support of community partners, particularly Dave Stavros, Director, and Steve Casey, Associate Director, of Scouts Rhode Island.

The food donation is being received by organisations and facilities represented by Laura Jones, Director of the East Providence Senior Center; Jodi Dirniuo, Director of Heritage Hills Rehab & Health Center; Tom Rossi, Coordinator of Manville Share Shack Food Bank; and Nicole VanWort, Associate Director of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

Four years of giving back
FIA New England has maintained the tradition of combining Diwali celebrations with community service for the past four years. Its annual food donation initiative is organised ahead of the holiday season to support families and strengthen community ties.

The organisation works to promote service, unity and cultural harmony between the Indian-American community and the wider population of New England.

Guests were served snacks and dinner prepared by The Treasury Dining. The afternoon concluded with group photographs and festive greetings, carrying forward the message of Diwali through cultural exchange and support for those in need.