Some 8,000 to 10,000 people enjoyed the 23rd Dushahra (Dussehra) Festival Oct. 9, 2021 at Lake Papaianni Park in Edison, New Jersey, according to organizers. People streamed in and out of the grounds from 1 pm to 8:30 pm when the festival culminated with the burning of Ravan’s effigy.
A festive atmosphere prevailed with at least 35 stalls selling Indian delicacies as well as clothing, jewelry, and a host of other products. Organized by Indo-American Festivals, the event was also supported by the Middlesex County Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. 1 pm to 8 pm.
Starting with the ceremonial lamp-lighting ceremony where local high-profile guests were in attendance, the festival included a cultural program where dance schools of the area as well as solo artists performed.
A two-hour segment on the story behind the Ram Leela was performed by some 70 artists. It was choreographed by well-known artist Varsha Naik.
The effigy of Ravan was 30 feet high and built by Krishna Gopal Singhal, a local artist from Long Island who spent three months creating the massive statue, organizers told Desi Talk.
“Usually, we have more than 15,000 people, but this time due to the pandemic, only 8,000-10,000 people came and went at the festival,” Raj Mittal of Indo-American Festivals, told Desi Talk.
Numerous local VIPs and elected officials attended the event, including Chief Guest Gulshan Chhabra.
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