Anil Pandey, Beijing
Diwali, the festival of lights was celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm in Beijing over the weekend. Kathak, Garba, Bollywood music, and dance entertained the audience during the event held at the AC Embassy Hotel, Sanlitun.
People also enjoyed delicious Indian cuisine prepared by the Chefs of popular Taj Pavilion Restaurant. Not only the members of the Indian community living in Beijing and surrounding cities attended the event, but also people from more than ten countries. Dr. Reddy’s China head Satheeshkumar Sriharan and other dignitaries graced the occasion.
The program organized by the Beijing Indians was eagerly awaited and the celebrations that lasted late into the night and the glittering Diwali lights only added to the enthusiasm. Stupendous performances by the artists and guests spread the flavors of Indian tradition and culture.
Renowned Chinese Kathak dancers Juan Du (Hindi name Sachita) and Zhanjinghui’s team, who recently performed before Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tianjin, captivated the audience with their captivating performance.
Earlier, Diwali celebrations began with the lighting of lamps and entire hall was illuminated with diyas, rangoli, and lights. This was a special occasion for Indians living in Beijing and surrounding cities to celebrate the festival and socialize. Members of the Indian community wore traditional attire at this event, while foreigners wearing Indian dresses demonstrated the immense love for Indian culture and traditions.
In addition, people danced to the beats of Garba and the upbeat music, noted dancer Juan Du impressed with her performance of traditional Indian Kathak. Moreover Gajinder Sharma, Ketki Thakar, Leela Bhatt, Dev Mehra and Swajas Thakar of the Indie Vibe group entertained the audience with Bollywood songs. Shivam Mishra did the Bhangra dance, while young children showcased their dancing talents. The highlight of the night was the dance performance by Chinese and foreign guests, which symbolizes the popularity of Indian music.
Arun Mogar, organizer of the event said, the purpose of the event is to spread awareness among Chinese and foreigners about Diwali, also to bring together Indian families and students living in China, who are away from their homes and loved ones. It’s noteworthy that the Diwali celebration was held for the second consecutive year in Beijing.
Mehernosh Pastakia of Indian restaurant Taj Pavilion and his team made excellent arrangements and served delicious cuisine during the auspicious occasion. There is no doubt in saying that people thoroughly enjoyed the Diwali celebrations and connected deeply with Indian traditions, culture, and festivities. The event was sponsored by the pharmaceutical company Dr. Reddy’s and Taj Pavilion.
In fact, on this occasion,people not only celebrated Diwali but also felt a deep connection to their culture while living abroad. This symbolizes that no matter how far we live from our homeland, it’s not easy to forget the festive celebrations and traditions. The grand Diwali celebrations on Chinese soil also conveyed the message of light triumphing over darkness and good over evil. With this hope that members of Indian diaspora will maintain a similar attachment to their culture and traditions As we know, Diwali is one of the biggest festivals in India. For Hindus, the celebration of Diwali marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman after 14 years of Vanvas and killing of demon Ravana. Thus, the people of Ayodhya lit lamps along the way to light their way in the darkness.
(Anil Pandey is a senior Journalist living and working in China.)
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