All photos curtesy Ritu Maheshwari

On a community level, many organizations and local businesses host events to celebrate Diwali in their own flavor.

The FOG festival consisted of many exciting segments. ‘Deepotsava’ as an exciting hour long segment comprised of mesmerizing dances form India by 100+ performers. Another segment ‘Saree Fashion Parade,’ was a spectacular performance by 150+ ladies, adorned in beautiful sarees and representing over 20 cultures and state heritages.

Diwali event also had over 1000+ dancers performing traditional, classical, and contemporary Indian dances and competing for the top prizes. The unique ‘Ramayana’ performance by ‘Rungmunch’ was the showstopper of the event, with their professionals performing the scene of ‘Jatayu’ that enabled the ocean crossing by Hanuman. Attendees were mesmerized by their performance and their ability to depict Ramayana values.