By: Prachi Jaitly 

The Bihar Jharkhand Association of Midwest (BJUS) celebrated Diwali Deepotsav 2025 with remarkable enthusiasm, gathering more than 200 attendees for an evening of cultural pride, vibrant performances, and strong community connection.

The program held last week, opened with heartfelt renditions of the U.S. and Indian national anthems by elementary school students under the guidance of Dr. Arti Manchanda. A diverse lineup of performances followed, featuring children and adults, traditional music, and the ceremonial lighting of diyas. Led by the BJUS core team and honored by Chief Guest K. D. Thokchom, Deputy Consul General of India, the diya-lighting symbolized hope, positivity, and new beginnings.

Guests enjoyed festive delicacies and lively DJ music throughout the evening. Community leaders including Neelam Dwivedi and Harish Kolasani shared thoughtful remarks, while emcees Pramod Kumar Singh and Pankaj Kumar guided the event with warmth.

The celebration also featured informational and business booths, including:
• State Bank of India (SBI): banking services and new schemes
• Eye Level Naperville: academic enrichment programs
• Attorney Sagar Thakkar: guidance on wills and trusts, along with raffle sponsorship

In her presidential address, Shikha Kumari expressed gratitude to the community and highlighted major accomplishments of the 2024–2026 leadership team as it marked its first anniversary. Key initiatives included:

• Women’s and men’s cricket tournaments
• Volunteer service with Feed My Starving Children
• Pickleball and badminton tournaments
• Participation in India’s Independence Day celebration at the LCIA event
• Representation at the National India Hub Parade
• CPR training sessions for members
• Co-sponsoring Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas with the Consulate General of India

“Today’s Diwali celebration reflects the strength of our community and the richness of our shared cultural roots,” Kumari said. “It is uplifting to see families and friends come together to honor our traditions with such pride and unity.”

BJUS reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural exchange, strengthening community ties, and celebrating the vibrant heritage of Bihar and Jharkhand.