BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE
Tucker, GA, October 31, 2025: The Gujarati Samaj of Atlanta (GSA) marked a major milestone this year with a double celebration — Diwali 2025 and the 25th Anniversary of Sardar Patel Bhavan. The event, held at the iconic community center itself, was a magnificent evening filled with devotion, elegance, and joyous energy — widely regarded as one of the finest and most memorable celebrations in GSA’s 45-year history.
The celebration was graced by two distinguished guests — Mr. Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, Consulate General of India in Atlanta, and Professor Jagdish Sheth, globally respected scholar, philanthropist, and community leader. Their presence added prestige and inspiration to this landmark event, reflecting the cultural strength and unity of the Indian-American community in Georgia.
The JC Shah Hall of Sardar Patel Bhavan was beautifully transformed for the occasion. At the entrance, a colorful Rangoli design and a divine Murti of Lord Ganesha, adorned with fresh flowers, set the spiritual tone of the evening. Inside, guests were greeted warmly by volunteers managing check-in and registration with efficiency and grace, supported by on-site security and police officers ensuring comfort and safety for all.
Sponsor banners — including Patel Brothers, Star Importers and Wholesalers, 101 Distributors, and others — proudly decorated the venue, underscoring the community’s shared commitment. Tables were neatly set with souvenir magazines, snacks, bottled water, and event programs, while a cheerful photo booth allowed families and friends to capture colorful memories.
By late afternoon, the hall sparkled with color and conversation as guests arrived dressed in festive sarees, kurtas, and suits. Outside, a traditional village hut setup evoked nostalgia, complete with rhythmic drum beats and Ramjibhai Desai, dressed as a Rabari in vibrant Rajasthani attire, delighting guests who posed for photos beside a decorative well reminiscent of rural India.
The main stage came alive with vibrant lighting, digital backdrops, and energetic anticipation. The evening was skillfully hosted by Bhushan Mehta and Bhrushira Vyas, whose lively commentary kept the audience engaged from start to finish.
Behind the scenes, dozens of dedicated volunteers prepared a delicious feast — chopping vegetables, frying, stirring, and serving — their teamwork and devotion capturing the very essence of Gujarati Samaj’s community spirit.
Friends reconnected after decades, life members reminisced, and former presidents arrived with their families — all joining together to celebrate 25 years of their beloved Sardar Patel Bhavan, which has stood as a proud symbol of unity and heritage.
A special children’s area near the entrance was a hit, offering games, face painting, rangoli, dance, and tasty treats like pizza, nachos, and sweets. Parents enjoyed the main event while knowing their children were safely having fun in a festive atmosphere.
The program opened with traditional appetizers — Gota, Gathiya, Marcha, and Kadhi — followed by the arrival of the evening’s dignitaries on stage. Professor Sheth and Consul General Ramesh Babu together lit the ceremonial diya, marking an auspicious beginning to both the Diwali festivities and the silver jubilee of Sardar Patel Bhavan.
A soulful Ganesh Stuti was performed, followed by a graceful solo dance by Mrs. Pallaviben on “Ram Ayenge.” The award for the Best High School Graduate Student was then presented, celebrating youth excellence and inspiring the next generation.
The formal introduction of Team Diwali and GSA Board Members drew warm applause from the audience. A deeply touching moment followed as Professor Sheth and Consul General Ramesh Babu honored all past and present presidents of Gujarati Samaj, including Mr. Vinubhai Kaswala, with commemorative plaques and turbans. Family members accepted awards on behalf of those unable to attend, and a grand group photograph of all presidents captured the historic moment.
Special recognition was also extended to Mrs. Savla of Nritya Natya and eleven other community members for their outstanding service. Mahendrabhai Patel and Sonny Bharadia received emotional standing ovations for their resilience and eventual exoneration — their heartfelt remarks moved everyone present.
The artistic highlight of the evening was the spectacular dance production “Ranglo and Ranglee,” choreographed by Sheel and performed by a talented group of 20 young women. Dressed in radiant sarees, they brought the spirit of Gujarat to life through rhythmic garba beats, dynamic formations, and breathtaking coordination — earning a thunderous ovation from the audience.
The Masters of Ceremony expressed deep gratitude to all performers, volunteers, and guests, whose efforts made this year’s event truly exceptional.
The evening concluded with a lavish Gujarati dinner, enjoyed by all. As guests departed with smiles and full hearts, children gleefully received fireworks to take home — a fitting finale to a night filled with light and laughter.
The weather cooperated perfectly, staying pleasant and clear throughout. Despite a few minor delays during entry and dinner service, the event’s overall organization was outstanding — a true reflection of the dedication and teamwork of Team Diwali, led by Manojbhai Barot and his technical crew.
For over four decades, the Gujarati Samaj of Atlanta has upheld its mission of preserving culture, promoting unity, and serving the community. The 2025 Diwali Celebration and the 25th Anniversary of Sardar Patel Bhavan stood as a shining testament to that enduring legacy.
