Our Bureau
Jamaica, NY
Janmashtami, the Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, was marked with a colorful community parade on September 5, 2026, along Hillside Avenue in Jamaica, New York. The procession travelled from 175th Street to 157th Street, an area known for its vibrant Bengali business community.
More than 1,000 people participated in the parade, which featured cultural performances, folk dances and children dressed as Lord Krishna. The celebration brought together residents, community organizations and local leaders in a display of cultural heritage and religious tradition.
Among the prominent attendees were Congresswoman Grace Meng, New York City Comptroller Mark Levine, a New York State Assemblyman, judges, a Democratic District Leader and several community leaders.
The event also included a back-to-school initiative aimed at supporting local children. Approximately 200 school bags were distributed to young students by Comptroller Mark Levine and Congresswoman Grace Meng.
A cake-cutting ceremony was also held to commemorate Lord Krishna’s 5,253rd birthday anniversary, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The hugely successful event was led by Dr. Dilip Nath, Democratic District Leader and organized by following organizations:
Mahamaya Mandir, Debaloy Mandir, Nath Mission of USA, Baba Loknath Ashram, Hindu Democratic Club of USA, Jamaica Kali Mandir, Times Square Durga Puja, Om Shakti Temple, Gaur Nitai Mandir, Balgopal Sangha, Sarvajanin Gita Sangha, Guruchakra Paribar, Hindu Culture and Heritage Center, Uttar American Hindu Kalyan Sangha, MTA Hindu Employees Association, Bisnu Aroti Foundation, Bangladesh Seba Sangha, Srikrishna Bhakta Shangha USA Inc, Bangladesh Vedanta Society, Jagannath Hall Alumni(DUI), USA, Matua Mission of NY,Shri Krishna Bhakta Sangha Inc., Sreemad bhagabad Gita Study Center Inc, NY, Harekrishna Namhatta Society of NY, Bangladesh Puja Samiti, Sanatan Sebasram Foundation Inc. (Mahakali Temple).
Organizers said the celebration highlighted the contributions of the Bengali and broader South Asian community while providing an opportunity for families to come together, celebrate their traditions and support local children.