For Immediate Release                                             Contact: Collin Nash or Sid Nathan
October 31, 2008                                                                                  (516) 869 7794

Town Celebrates Diwali –The Festival of Lights

New Hyde Park, NY—Celebrating North Hempstead’s diverse culture, town officials recently joined with others in government and Indian Americans across the area to observe Diwali, a major festival celebrated globally.

The Diwali celebration Sunday Oct. 26 at Clinton G. Martin Park featured a variety of traditional Indian customs, including classical dances such as “Bharatanatyam” and “Bhangra” performed by young artists and the customary lighting of the lamps symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

Several officials in local government were honored, including North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman, who was presented with the Sword of Honor in recognition of his leadership for promoting diversity.

“The Town continues to make a concerted effort to recognize the important holidays of our residents,” said Supervisor Jon Kaiman. “I enjoy this holiday every year and always look forward to celebrating Diwali with millions of others around the world.”

Diwali, like most other Indian celebrations, was filled with bright colors and lights, signifying the variety of religious, cultural and traditional elements of the society. Some 300 attendees participated in the recent celebration at Clinton G. Martin Park.

Mohinder Singh Taneja, a director of the Nassau County Office of Minority Affairs, and chairperson of the Diwali Committee along with Raj Mehta, Coordinator, Indu Jaiswal, Chairperson of Indian American Forum and Jonai Singh, Cultural Coordinator commented, “The Diwali event was once again celebrated with great enthusiasm. We thank Supervisor Kaiman, all the elected officials present and the hard work of the Diwali committee members.”

Mohinder Taneja, Chairperson of Diwali Committee, presents Supervisor Kaiman with the Sword of Honor along with (L to R) Councilwoman Lee Seeman, Surinder Chawla, Kirit Panchamia, Councilman Fred Pollack, Raj Mehta, Coordinator, Town Clerk Leslie Gross, Dr.Harshad Bhatt, Senator Craig Johnson, Police Commissioner Lawrence Mulvey, Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel. Councilman Robert Troiano and Andy Mansukhani.

Indu Jaiswal, Chairperson of Indian American Forum with Supervisor Kaiman lighting the traditional Diwali lamp.