Cultures Across Borders (CAB), a non-profit organization serving to propagate social harmony through cultural blending will be organizing the ‘Indian Festival of Lights- Grand Diwali Mela’ on Saturday, Oct 3, 2009 from 12 noon to 2 am at the North Atlanta Trade Center in Norcross, GA . 
This year’s ‘Free-Admission’ event comprises 14 hours of festivity. Over 10,000 people are expected to attend.

“The story of the Festival of lights has strong message of brotherhood and therefore is very relevant in a war and savagery struck world today appealing for peace and forbearance,” said a press release issued by CAB. “The event yearns that the people of this world live together in the spirit of festivity, love, mutual respect and inclusiveness. It therefore has a cohesive message for the Atlanta communities to unite in adversity.” 

CAB had organized its first diwali mela in 2007, where over 8500 people attended. It was co-sponsored by Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, Kroger et al. This year, cultural fusion would be anointed by heart-rending performances from diverse ethnic groups as well as participating international organizations in an atmosphere of inclusiveness, said the release. 

Apart from a dandiya raas and garba competition and live music from the band ‘Rangat’, there will be plenty of other activities like - rides, games, ravan effigy burning, fireworks, music, dance, arts, crafts, pottery, henna tattoos, body painting, traditional floor painting, exhibition, ceremonial parade and international cuisine.

For more details and directions call 678-467-0837, 770-270-1758, 770- 495-7064 or visit www.culturesacrossborders.org.