Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America celebrates Diwali

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The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) hosted its annual Diwali celebration Nov. 5, 2023, in the ballroom of the Royal Albert’s Palace in Fords, New Jersey.

The event was attended by more than 600 community members from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware, a press release from BJANA said.

The event was fun-filled with cultural programs, showcasing the  diversity of Bihar and Jharkhand, dances, a live band and a dance floor, and singing by children and adults from the community. There were exhibits by sponsors, speeches by the chief guest and other special attendees, as well as fine Indian cuisine. and honored guests, and delicious Indian cuisine.

Among the special attendees were Chief Guest Mayor Charlie Carley of South Brunswick Township in New Jersey who extended his warm wishes for a Happy Diwali to all.

The Governor of Jharkhand C. P. Radhakrishnan, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand Hemant Soren, and the Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar conveyed their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the entire Bihar and Jharkhand community in the United States.

Anurag Kumar, the president of BJANA, in his speech, emphasized BJANA’s ongoing fundraising efforts and charitable activities in the USA, Bihar, and Jharkhand, expressing gratitude to the community for its active participation and unwavering support for BJANA’s philanthropic endeavors.

Alok Kumar, the past president of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), called on everyone to join in bidding farewell to Consul General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, on November 20th, and express their gratitude for his services to the Indian community.

During the event, several individuals were honored for their lasting contributions to their community. Dr. Anil Kumar received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering service to BJANA. Dr. Rupam Saran was recognized for her remarkable achievements and community service. Abhinav Atul from Bihar, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the people of Bihar and Jharkhand.

Executive Vice President and president-elect of FIA Dr. Avinash Gupta, was congratulated by BJANA for his upcoming leadership role in FIA. Additionally, Kumar extended his congratulations to Vice President Sanjeev Singh for taking on the additional role of FIA Treasurer.

Several exhibits were on display at the hall, including, “Made in Bihar” by BIHARIKA and “Made in Jharkhand” by JHARCRAFT, showing the wide range of art and handicraft products, including tribal ornaments, brass items, Sikki works, wooden works, Tikuli, and Madhubani paintings, helping to promote the artistry and craftsmanship of the region.