ISW Lights Up Downtown Boston with a Grand Diwali Celebration of Music, Dance, and Dhol Tasha

The India Society of Worcester (ISW) brought the radiant spirit of Diwali to downtown Boston with a grand celebration at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, transforming one of the city’s most iconic spaces into a showcase of Indian culture, music, and dance. The event drew hundreds of visitors and performers, filling the marketplace with color, rhythm, and joy.

Organized in collaboration with Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the evening featured an array of performances, including soulful classical music, elegant Bharatanatyam, and energetic Bollywood dance numbers. The highlight of the night was the Dhol Tasha performance, first by a spirited group of children performing in public for the very first time, followed by a high-energy set by the adult ensemble that electrified the crowd and echoed through the historic marketplace.

“Diwali at Faneuil Hall was a collective effort spanning generations, from young children to grandparents,” said Ashok Kale, the event coordinator. “The weather was perfect, and the enthusiasm of the performers and volunteers made the evening truly memorable. The blend of classical and contemporary performances beautifully reflected the richness of our culture.”

Longtime ISW volunteer Carolyn Passey echoed the sentiment, praising the teamwork and flawless execution. “The entire evening ran so smoothly,” she noted. “The energy was incredible, and you could really tell how much effort went into making it happen. The crowd was fully engaged from start to finish.”

The festive ambiance was enhanced by a big colorful Aakash Kandil lantern, traditional décor, and cultural activity booth that invited participation from all ages. For many Indian American families, the evening served as a nostalgic reminder of home, while for others, it offered an inspiring glimpse into India’s living traditions.

Organizers noted that the strong turnout reflects a growing appreciation for Indian cultural events across the Greater Boston area. ISW continues to create meaningful opportunities for youth engagement and cross-cultural connection, helping bridge communities through shared celebration.

“The success of this year’s Diwali celebration once again highlights our community’s enthusiasm and the power of cultural connection,” added Kale.

The ISW Diwali at Faneuil Hall Marketplace stands as one of the organization’s most successful downtown events to date, reinforcing its mission of promoting Indian heritage and fostering community engagement throughout Massachusetts.

Photos by Aishwarya Mungarwadi, Kapil Pawar, Mukesh Tanwani, Rajesh Khare, Suchitra Shinde and other volunteers

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