Allen, Texas, USA: The City of Allen, in collaboration with the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas, hosted a five-day Diwali Mahotsav, offering cultural performances, fireworks, and community gatherings that celebrated unity and diversity.
From October 17 to 21, 2025, Allen commemorated Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with events attracting thousands of local residents and visitors.
Organised by the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas (JKYog), the festivities highlighted the festival’s central theme: the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
The Mahotsav featured daily rituals, cultural shows, traditional Indian food, workshops for children, and a four-day fireworks display. The week concluded on October 21 with Govardhan Puja and the Gujarati New Year celebration, accompanied by a devotional bhajan evening.
Mayor Baine L. Brooks officially recognised the occasion by issuing a city proclamation, designating October 17–20 as “Diwali, Festival of Lights Week,” acknowledging Allen’s cultural inclusiveness. “On behalf of my family, I wish everyone a happy and prosperous Diwali filled with joy, peace, and hope,” Mayor Brooks stated.
Highlights of the celebration included the lighting of 11,111 diyas symbolising the victory of light over darkness, group recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa, children’s activities, a Ramleela enactment, Govardhan Puja, and beautifully adorned deities of Sita Ram and Radha Krishna.
The week’s events reflected the community’s enthusiasm and togetherness, with participants thanking the Radha Krishna Temple and the City of Allen for providing a space to honour shared cultural traditions.
In addition to cultural celebrations, the Mahotsav emphasised spiritual engagement and community connection through traditional ceremonies and educational programs. Organisers noted a steady increase in participation, signalling growing multicultural involvement in the region.
The Radha Krishna Temple plans to continue the festivities with a Mahaprasad Annakut on Sunday, October 26, led by temple founder Swami Mukundananda. This final event will include devotional offerings and a communal meal, carrying forward the spirit of Diwali beyond the official celebration week.
