Celebrating the spirit of light, unity, compassion, and community service, the Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England brought the joy of Diwali to the historic Rhode Island State House on Friday afternoon. Its annual Diwali Celebration and Food Donation Ceremony transformed the Governor’s Executive Hall into a vibrant gathering of culture, tradition, and generosity, bringing together distinguished dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders, and members of the Indian-American community.
The celebration carried a meaningful message beyond the festivities: sharing happiness and supporting those in need. A major highlight was the kickoff of FIA New England’s food donation initiative featuring more than 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food items to support families across Rhode Island.
Rhode Island State House Shines with the Colors of Diwali
Beneath the historic portrait of George Washington, the Governor’s Executive Hall was beautifully transformed with saffron and red drapes, marigold garlands, sparkling lights, a vibrant rangoli, and traditional brass lamps.
Families and guests arrived dressed in colorful saris, elegant sherwanis, and traditional kurtas, adding warmth and cultural richness to the occasion.
The beautiful decorations and festive atmosphere reflected the essence of Diwali, India’s beloved Festival of Lights, which celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Distinguished Dignitaries Join FIA New England’s Celebration
FIA New England President Abhishek Singh welcomed distinguished guests and community members for the traditional Lighting of the Lamp and Food Donation Kickoff Ceremony.
The gathering was honored by the presence of:
- Congressman Gabe Amo, U.S. House of Representatives (RI-01)
- Shri Raghuram S., Consul General of India, Boston
- Mayor Roberto “Bob” DaSilva, City of East Providence
- Philip G. Gould, Town Administrator, Town of Lincoln
- Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Abhulime, representing Governor Dan McKee
- Kassandra Florez, Community Affairs Director for U.S. Senator Jack Reed
- Victor Mazurenko, Director, Fidelity Financial
- Jermie Thompson, Vice President and Business Banker, First Citizens Bank
- Mervat Khalil, Board Member, YMCA of Rhode Island
- Ram and Meetu Gupta, community leaders
Their participation highlighted the importance of cultural understanding, community partnerships, and the shared commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives.
Lighting the Lamp: A Symbol of Hope, Peace, and Prosperity
The program was emceed by Jyoti Singh, who explained the cultural and spiritual significance of Diwali and its message of righteousness, hope, and positivity.
The celebration opened with a traditional Aarti and Lighting of the Lamp ceremony. Dignitaries and guests joined together in lighting tall brass lamps and offering prayers for peace, good health, happiness, and prosperity for all.
The ceremony served as a beautiful reminder that light represents knowledge, kindness, and the hope of a brighter future.
Community Leaders Share Inspiring Messages of Service and Unity
The celebration featured heartfelt messages from public officials and community leaders, who appreciated the Indian-American community’s contributions and FIA New England’s continued commitment to humanitarian service.
Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01) praised the community’s dedication to helping those in need.
“A celebration with a purpose is truly commendable, and that is exactly what the Indian-American community is doing today. Empathy and compassion for those in need is the greatest charitable work of all.”
Shri Raghuram S., Consul General of India in Boston, extended his warm Diwali greetings and encouraged greater collaboration between lawmakers and the Consulate General of India.
“I warmly invite all lawmakers to collaborate with the Consulate General of India in Boston for the betterment of our bilateral relations. I am deeply grateful for the special recognition of the humanitarian work during the pandemic by the Indian American community under the FIA-New England leadership, and I commend FIA New England for its outstanding service to the community.”
Mayor Roberto “Bob” DaSilva of East Providence reflected on the significance of Diwali and connected its message with his commitment to public service.
“Diwali celebrates Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom and the establishment of truth and justice. In the same spirit, as I begin my third term as Mayor, I pledge to serve the needy families of our community even more.”
Philip G. Gould, Town Administrator of Lincoln, recognized FIA New England’s support for local families during last year’s SNAP benefits disruption.
“When SNAP benefits were disrupted, FIA New England stepped up. Last year’s food donation reached every food pantry in Lincoln, and it made a real difference for families who needed it most.”
Abhishek Singh Highlights the True Meaning of Diwali
FIA New England President Abhishek Singh shared a meaningful message about the deeper purpose of Diwali, emphasizing that the festival becomes truly special when people extend kindness and support to others.
He explained that lighting a diya at home symbolizes something even greater when individuals come together to bring hope into the lives of people facing difficulties.
“On Diwali, we light a diya in every home. When all these lamps shine together, they drive the darkness away. That is the true essence of Diwali. When each of us, in our own capacity, brings light into the life of someone who needs it most, the purpose of our Diwali celebration is fulfilled.”
His message beautifully captured the spirit behind FIA New England’s annual food donation initiative: celebrating happiness by sharing it with the wider community.
Vibrant Cultural Performances Bring the Ramayana to Life
The cultural program added color, energy, and artistic excellence to the afternoon.
Choreographer and dance guru Nivedita Chakraborty of the Kalakar Group, together with Pooja Tiwari and Padmini Dey, presented wonderful cultural performances with their respective teams.
One of the most memorable highlights was the children’s presentation of the Ramayana. Dressed as Lord Rama, Sita, Hanuman, and members of the vanar sena (monkey army), the young performers brought the timeless Indian epic to life.
Their enthusiastic performances received warm applause from the audience, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage and the importance of passing traditional values to younger generations.
Honoring Community Service, Leadership, and Friendship
During the felicitation segment, FIA New England recognized distinguished dignitaries and community partners for their contributions, leadership, and continued support.
The organization also paid a heartfelt tribute to Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, appreciating his years of friendship and support for the Indian-American community and families in need across Rhode Island.
The recognition highlighted the value of lasting relationships between community organizations, government representatives, and local institutions in building a stronger and more inclusive society.
FIA New England Kicks Off Food Donation of More Than 20,000 Pounds
One of the most significant highlights of the celebration was the kickoff of FIA New England’s food donation initiative featuring more than 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food items for Rhode Island communities.
Organized ahead of the holiday season, the initiative reflects FIA New England’s ongoing commitment to supporting families and individuals experiencing food insecurity.
Abhishek Singh expressed his sincere appreciation to all community partners who contributed to making the food donation initiative possible. He especially acknowledged the support of:
- Dave Stavros, Director, Scouts Rhode Island
- Steve Casey, Associate Director, Scouts Rhode Island
He also thanked the organizations and representatives receiving the food donations:
- Laura Jones, Director, East Providence Senior Center
- Jodi Dirniuo, Director, Heritage Hills Rehab & Health Center
- Tom Rossi, Coordinator, Manville Share Shack Food Bank
- Nicole VanWort, Associate Director, Rhode Island Community Food Bank
Their participation reflected the importance of collaboration and collective responsibility in supporting local families and strengthening communities.
Four Years of Celebrating Diwali Through Giving Back
For the past four years, FIA New England has celebrated Diwali by organizing food donation initiatives ahead of the holiday season, making community service an important part of its annual festivities.
The organization’s efforts go beyond cultural celebrations. FIA New England works to promote humanitarian service, unity, and cultural harmony between the Indian-American community and the wider population of New England.
Through its continued initiatives and community partnerships, FIA New England demonstrates how cultural traditions can inspire meaningful charitable work and bring people together for a common purpose.
A Celebration of Culture, Compassion, and Community Spirit
The afternoon concluded with delicious snacks and dinner, prepared and served by The Treasury Dining. Guests enjoyed the opportunity to connect, exchange festive greetings, and celebrate the occasion together. The event wrapped up with group photographs and warm Diwali wishes.
The FIA New England Diwali celebration at the Rhode Island State House was more than a cultural gathering. It was a meaningful demonstration of how traditions, compassion, and community service can come together to create a positive impact.
By bringing together distinguished leaders, community members, cultural performers, and humanitarian partners, FIA New England reinforced the importance of unity, generosity, and shared responsibility.
The celebration delivered a beautiful message: The true light of Diwali shines brightest when we bring hope, happiness, and support into the lives of others.
May the spirit of Diwali continue to inspire kindness, strengthen friendships, and bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to every family.
For more information: Contact FIA New England at info@fiane.org.
FAQs
Q1. Where did FIA New England celebrate Diwali 2026?
FIA New England hosted its annual Diwali Celebration and Food Donation Ceremony at the Governor’s Executive Hall inside the Rhode Island State House in Providence, Rhode Island.
Q2. How much food did FIA New England donate?
FIA New England kicked off a food donation initiative featuring more than 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food items to support Rhode Island families.
Q3. Who is the president of FIA New England?
Abhishek Singh is the President of the Foundation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England.
Q4. What is the purpose of FIA New England’s Diwali food donation initiative?
The initiative aims to celebrate Diwali through humanitarian service, support families experiencing food insecurity, and strengthen community relationships across New England.
