Edison, NJ: The 27th Annual Dushahra Festival, organized by Indo-American Festivals, Inc., was celebrated with unparalleled enthusiasm and grandeur at Lake Papaianni Park on Saturday, October 4. Tens of thousands of attendees from across New Jersey and neighboring states gathered with their families to celebrate the victory of good over evil in one of the largest Indian cultural festivals in the tri-state area.
The festival began with a spectacular three-hour cultural extravaganza, featuring hundreds of dancers and performers from well-known regional academies. The highlight of the afternoon was the mesmerizing Ramleela, choreographed and directed by Navrang Dance Academy, performed in a vibrant theatrical style by over 75 seasoned artists.
Another major attraction was the live Sand Art show by acclaimed artist Mayur, who beautifully depicted scenes from the epic Ramayana — earning loud applause and admiration from the audience.
As night fell, the celebration reached its peak with the dramatic burning of a 20-foot-tall Ravana effigy, symbolizing the eternal triumph of good over evil. The festival concluded with a grand fireworks display, illuminating Edison’s night sky with millions of sparkling lights and echoing cheers from the mesmerized crowd.
(Photo courtesy: Raj Mittal)
More than 75 vendors and exhibitors showcased an array of jewelry, Indian ethnic wear, handicrafts, and professional services. The food court drew massive crowds, serving mouthwatering Indian delicacies that delighted visitors of all ages. The park shimmered with vibrant LED lights and glowing toys, adding to the festive spirit as children enjoyed every moment.
Since its inception in 1999, Indo-American Festivals, Inc. has organized the Dushahra Festival as a free community event, celebrating Indian culture, traditions, and heritage while sharing these timeless values with the younger generation.
The event’s success was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the organizing team — Chairperson Chanchal Gupta, Vice Chair Raj Mittal, President Shiva Arya, Dr. Ravindra Goyal, Dr. Rajiv Mehta, Vishv Jeet, Shalini Chhabra, and a large team of volunteers who worked tirelessly for months.
IAF is deeply grateful for the generous grant from Middlesex County, which helped tremendously in covering essential expenses, and for the strong support from the Township of Edison in providing the beautiful venue.
