The 'Dussehra, Diwali Dhamaka' event took place in the Bay Area, hosted by the Association of Indo-Americans (AIA). This celebration, co-organized by AIA and Bali 92.3, was held at the Alameda County Fairground in Pleasanton, California. Both Dussehra and Diwali are annual festivities, with over 45 Indian organizations across North America supporting the celebrations. The event attracted more than 20,000 non-resident Indians (NRIs).
October 21, 2024
A significant turnout of NRIs gathered to witness a 25-foot-tall Ram temple alongside the traditional burning of Ravana and fireworks displays. The organizers designed programs highlighting Indian cultural traditions, as well as themes of unity and diversity. Sanjeev Gupta, the event’s grand sponsor, along with CPA (fireworks), Dr. Prakash Advani (who led the Ravan Dahan), and various sponsors, including Realtor Nagaraj, Lurnigo (Educational Partner), Travel Pod, ZEE5 (Exclusive Streaming Partner), Onshore Kare, Kardia (Alivecor Inc), Taj Mahal Restaurant, Insta Service, and Azad Financials, contributed to the festivities. 'Namaste Andhra' served as the desi pavers and media partner.
Prominent figures in attendance included Alameda County Supervisor David Houbert (co-host), Consul General of India Dr. Sreekar Reddy, Pleasanton Mayor Carla Brown, Assembly members Liz Ortega and Alex Lee, as well as Alameda County Supervisors Elisa Márquez and Lena Tom. Mayor Carmen Montano (Milpitas) and Assembly Members Mia Bonta and Alex Lee also joined the celebrations, along with Council members Raj Salwan and Sridhar Veros, and Captain Roy Gamez from the Pleasanton Police Department. These guests addressed the crowd to extend their wishes for a joyful Dussehra and Diwali. Staff from Congressman Ro Khanna, Eric Swalwell, and Rebecca Beurkahan were also present at the event. Local restaurants hosted the 'Great Indian Food Festival,' offering a variety of delicious dishes. The AIA team expressed gratitude to all the sponsors for their ongoing support, as well as to the volunteers and middle and high school students who played a vital role in the event's success.
