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HUNDREDS EXPERIENCE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SMELLS OF SOUTH ASIA AT COMMUNITY DIWALI CELEBRATION

Exton, PA— Almost 500 hundred people, many from the local Indian community, celebrated Diwali, the Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist celebration at the Lionville Community YMCA in Exton on Friday, October 6. Known as the "Festival of Lights," Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and lamps are lit as a sign of celebration and hope for mankind.

The Indian/Asian community in the Exton area is growing and the YMCA celebrated their heritage with this cultural festival featuring Indian food and treats, Indian crafts and art displays, and musical and dance performances by local groups including the Sangeet Society and the Naatya Academy of Indian Classical Dance.

The event is part of the YMCA of the Upper Main Line’s new International program to engage the community in cross-cultural learning opportunities. This event is made possible through a grant from the 5-County Arts Fund (supported by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts) and through collaborations with Shoba Sharma, Sirish Nidamarthy, The Sangeet Society, and the students and families of the Exton Balavihar.

It is the mission of the YMCA to be the leading charitable community resource, founded on the YMCA’s Christian heritage and dedicated to building healthy spirit, min, and body through programs, services, and facilities that nurture children, strengthen families, and build strong communities.