Diwali is a celebration of renewal, light overcoming darkness, gathering together, and sharing joy. Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated cultural holidays in the world. While it originated in India, the festival is celebrated across the Indian subcontinent – including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and throughout Southeast Asia. Diwali is a time for gathering, gift-giving, lighting lamps (diyas), and enjoying food, music, and dance with loved ones.

This special event presented by Cooperstown Concerts offers something for everyone and tickets include the entire experience. 

First, Kiran Ahluwalia and her band will open the celebration with a concert, with rhythmic music and soaring vocals bringing together the disparate traditions of Indian music, West African Blues and Jazz. Ahluwalia’s band is directed by virtuoso guitarist Rez Abbasi, who consistently ranks among the top ten guitarists in the annual DownBeat International Critics Poll. Ahluwalia and Abbasi are a real-life couple – one born in India, the other in Pakistan. Her band consists of electric guitar, tabla, drums, accordion, organ, and electric bass. For more information about Kiran Ahluwalia and her music please read her bio. 

Next, everyone is invited to enjoy a delicious dinner buffet of Indian cuisine and a brief talk on the Diwali holiday. 

Then…the dance floor will open for moving and grooving to the sounds Bollywood and modern Indian dance music, served up by DJ Nataraja.