NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Atlanta, GA, December 16, 2024: Diwali Halchal – a grand celebration of the festival of lights – brought together well over 2,000 attendees of all ages and ethnicities in Atlanta on November 16, 2024, at Desana Middle School in Alpharetta. The event was hosted by Sruthi Chittoory, founder of Atlanta Indian Family (AIF), in association with Hetal Mehta from HNM Live Media.
The celebration was graced by Guests of Honor Hon. Carter Barret, District 24 Representative; Mr. David Chastain & Mrs. Lori Chastain; Mr. Karthik Bhatt; and Dr. Florence Fasan, along with other dignitaries representing various Indian associations.
“We were so excited and overwhelmed with the unique programs, competitions, and cultural participation. This splendid event would not have been possible without the amazing support of our patrons and sponsors: Patel Brothers, Moh Jewels, Jay Bhavani Indian Vegetarian Cafe, India Bhavan authentic Indian eatery, and Golden Dream Events. This event was not only a celebration of Diwali but also an opportunity for our new generation to learn about Indian culture, history, and the purpose of celebrating Diwali. To implement this thought, AIF organized a kids’ costume contest based on Indian mythological characters, which received applause from everyone,” organizers Chittoory and Mehta said in a joint statement.
Other activities that engaged the audience included an art competition for kids across various categories based on the Diwali theme, an Aarti Thali contest, a Maha Aarti led by dignitaries, and exciting raffle prizes. The grand raffle jewelry was sponsored by Moh Jewels, and other exciting prizes were provided by Where’s the Scoop, Anisa Couture, Kaiyar, Nari Shakti by Sharmila Hudda, Swetha Pakala, Disha Boutique by Priya, and Sheen by Sree.
The main highlights of the program included mesmerizing fashion shows organized by Priya Kumar with a Diwali theme featuring gorgeous women, and by Anuja Govada and Rishika Rao Diagala, who presented a unique combination of kids and teens. The audience delighted in enchanting music, cultural performances, and entertainment provided by DJ AK. The venue was beautifully decorated by Golden Dream Events, while the stunning moments and memories were captured by Sirisha from MS Studios and Pramod from Photo Xperts.
The event was presented and hosted by a unique trio representing different parts of India: Shireesha Mantri, Veena Pothula, and Brushira.
With more than 25 shopping stalls, delicious food stalls, and nonstop entertainment, Diwali Halchal was a grand success and a complete family entertainment package – all offered free of charge.
