Saraswati Cultural Association hosted its inaugural Diwali Festival of Lights at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center. From 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 16, visitors arrived at the free outdoor event to enjoy a celebration of culture and community via folk dances and live performances. The festival featured a variety of vendors for adults and children, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that allowed everyone to participate.
The Saraswati Cultural Association hopes to make the festival a reoccurring event in East Brunswick to promote cultural and ethnic harmony in the community.
For more information on the organization, upcoming events and its overall mission, visit www.scaofnj.org/#/.
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Mehndi, a form of body art, was a popular attraction with many visitors lining up to get a design done. ▲
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A young boy chases his father during the festival. The outdoor space allowed families to roam freely, adding to the fun. ▲
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Mayor Brad Cohen posing with a vendor during the Diwali Festival of Lights. ▲
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Mayor Brad Cohen.▲
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Members of the SCA recited the Pledge of Allegiance and India's National Pledge at the start of the event. ▲
The inaugural festival drew many visitors from the community. ▲
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Visitors were able to enjoy a variety of dances from different groups and performers. ▲
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While waiting to take the stage, performers helped each other prepare by applying makeup and fixing outfits. ▲
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Anita Chadha, Founder and President of the Saraswati Cultural Association speaks to the crowd.
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Various vendors were present at the festival selling racks of clothing and culture-specific items for visitors to purchase.▲
