NEW YORK, NY: Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square, presented by KIA, brought the heart of Times Square alive with a celebration of cultural diversity, equity, and inclusion on November 7, 2023. The event coincided with the celebration of the NYC Diwali school holiday, providing an ideal backdrop for the festivities.
Diwali, the Indian festival of Lights, traditionally symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. However, Diwali at Times Square,2023, emphasized the importance of illuminating the inner self and promoting unity, enlightenment, love, peace, and harmony to create a more peaceful world. “The festival prioritized including children and teaching them to be responsible citizens, compassionate individuals, and good neighbors. Recognizing America as a nation of immigrants, the event aimed to unite people from diverse backgrounds, focusing on education to foster unity and diversity,” said the Founder of Diwali at Times Square, Neeta Bhasin.
KIA America, the presenting sponsor of Gopi Diwali at Times Square, proudly shares its support for this vibrant event. “Diwali’s core values of balance, harmony, and joy are mutual guiding principles of Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, of Kia America. “That’s why Kia is proud to participate as presenting sponsor of Diwali in Times Square and recognize the festival of lights.“
The title sponsor of this year’s festival was Gopi, a family-run dairy company from California, serving the South Asian community for over a decade. Annie Keropian-Dilsizian, Marketing Manager for Gopi, expressed the significance of such a historic event and the importance of spreading the universal message of peace and love through Diwali, the festival of light, knowledge, family, and food.
The event featured an awards segment to recognize individuals who have made substantial contributions in their respective fields. Neera Tanden, Director of the US Domestic Policy Council, was honored with the “Woman of the Year Award in Public Service,” and Shailesh Jejurikar, the COO of Procter and Gamble, received the “Man of the Year in Private Service.” Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, instrumental in establishing the NYC school holiday and a strong supporter of Diwali at Times Square, was presented with the Samman Award.
The “Light Up Concert” featured Bollywood sensation Mika Singh, Indian American singer Shuba, and local talent, making it a musical spectacle. The event showcased the city’s vibrant cultural diversity and celebrated individuals who have left an enduring impact on society.
A R Helping Hands Diwali at Times Square is an annual event that celebrates Diwali with grandeur, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to embrace unity in diversity, honor outstanding achievements, and celebrate the festival of lights.
