On November 7, 2025, Surati for Performing Arts held its formal Diwali Gala at Barrow Mansion in Jersey City, New Jersey. Although the organization has organized many Diwali celebrations over the years, this was its first official gala event. It brought together Indian cultural traditions, live performances, and community engagement in one evening. The gala also celebrated Surati’s 23 years of work in the performing arts, arts education, and cultural outreach.
- Surati for Performing Arts held its first formal Diwali Gala on November 7, 2025, at Barrow Mansion in Jersey City, celebrating 23 years of cultural and community work.
- The event featured Indian classical, folk, and fusion dance performances, live music, and excerpts from Surati’s original production Ramaavan – A Musical.
- Local leaders and cultural representatives attended the gala, which also included a reception, silent auction, and DJ-led celebration supported by multiple sponsors.
Reception and Opening Segment
The evening began with a VIP cocktail hour. Guests were welcomed with hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and live jazz music performed by a pianist. The venue featured vendor booths and a silent auction offering cultural items and experiences contributed by the community. A video presentation recapped Surati’s 23-year history, showcasing its work in education, outreach, and performance.
Several guests from the public and cultural sectors attended. Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey and former Governor Jim McGreevey acknowledged Surati’s continued efforts to connect communities through the arts. A representative from the Indian Consulate praised the group’s dedication over two decades.
Dance and Music Performances
The performances for the evening were curated by Surati’s Founder and Executive Artistic Director, Rimli Roy. Dance segments featured classical Indian forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, along with folk and modern styles including Rajasthani Ghoomar, Bollywood, belly dance, and fusion. Dancers from Surati’s company performed across these forms.
A duet featuring Abhinav Acharya on tabla and Kaleb Hassell on cajón introduced the musical portion of the evening, which was followed by a piano performance by Sumit Roy, a composer from Kolkata, who played an Indian raga while Acharya played tabla.
Ramaavan – A Musical on Stage
The second part of the program featured scenes from Ramaavan – A Musical, Surati’s original production based on the Ramayana. This work was created by Surati’s founder and had previously toured India in 2024 under an invitation from an Indian government cultural agency. The production, recognized by a national arts grant, was performed by a group of actors and dancers.
The music for Ramaavan was written by two composers, with lyrics and verses contributed by a lyricist closely connected to the company. The performance received a standing ovation. The director shared that having her parents, both involved in the production, present during the performance made the moment especially meaningful.
Musical Finale and Community Support
The final portion of the evening included a live music set performed by a guitarist, followed by a medley of Calypso, retro, and Indian folk music. The segment brought guests to the dance floor. A DJ concluded the event with a high-energy set that included artists, audience members, and invited officials.
The event was supported by sponsors, including the Albrich Academy of Excellence (AAE), whose representative, Dorota Mani, also led the silent auction. Additional support came from cultural and tourism offices and development partners.
Surati for Performing Arts is a nonprofit based in Jersey City. The organization promotes Indian arts through performances, education, and outreach. Its work has been presented at major venues such as the United Nations and Lincoln Center, and has received coverage from national media outlets. Surati’s ongoing programs are supported by local cultural trusts and regional arts funds.
