Surrey (Amrit Dhot): The inaugural Lights of India drew thousands of visitors to Swangard Stadium in Burnaby for a two-day celebration of food, culture, music, dance and community.
The festival featured live entertainment, cultural performances, an open Garba celebration, a marketplace, family activities and a food plaza with more than 20 food vendors. Local businesses and organizations engaged attendees through sponsor activations, product showcases and interactive experiences.
More than 600 artists and 100 volunteers helped deliver the event, which attracted families, professionals, students, entrepreneurs and seniors from Burnaby, Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond, Delta, New Westminster, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Langley, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and other communities across British Columbia.
Yash, the main organizer of Lights of India, played a central role in bringing the festival together. He is also associated with Inspire Dance Academy and organizes cultural and community events through Inspire Event Company, combining dance, entertainment and community programming.
Amrit Dhot served as a Strategic Partner for the event, supporting its community engagement and efforts to connect businesses, artists and communities through the festival.
The closing program featured a grand laser show, while the planned fireworks finale remained subject to necessary approvals.
Lights of India was presented as a new cultural celebration aimed at bringing communities, businesses and families together while providing a platform for local artists, food vendors, entrepreneurs and community organizations.
Organizers expressed their vision of developing Lights of India into an annual cultural tradition in British Columbia, celebrating food, music, dance, culture and community.
