Our Bureau
Flushing, NY
New York Governor Kathy Hochul celebrated Diwali at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Flushing, NY with traditional festivity and religious fervor. Hochul was joined in by Jenifer Rajkumar, New York Assemblywoman and Kanu Patel, CEO, of BAPS of North America.
The program started with devotional songs by the BAPS Youths and followed by Bharatanatyam by Aanvi Patel and Ruchi Patel. Over 200 people gathered to celebrate Diwali celebrations on the occasion.
The opening prayers were recited by Priest Ravi Vaidyanaat Sivachariar, of Ganesh temple, Flushing, NY. He explained the true meaning of Diwali in English. Later, priest from BAPS Swaminarayan mandir Harikrishna Joshi offered prayers with Shankh played by Guru Dilipji of UN Yoga Center, NY.
The auspicious beginning was followed by Diya lightening performed by elected officials and Kanu Patel, CEO, of BAPS of North America. After that New York Governor spoke eloquently about the Diwali festival and the school Holiday declared for Diwali. Hochul also brought the Citation for the BAPS which was handed over to Kanu Patel along with BAPS Executive team.
Later, the BAPS team offered an invitation for Hochul to visit Robbinsville Akshardham temple in New Jersey.
