CELEBRATING COMMUNITY DIWALI: Aerial fireworks capped the Sanskriti of New Jersey celebration of Diwali on Friday night at the Livingston Oval. “Diwali is celebrated by millions of Indians all over the world irrespective of religious affiliation, a celebration of good over evil and a path toward light from darkness,” said Neeta Juvekar who, with Nilesh Mhatre and Punam Bhargava, organized the event. Police Chief Gary Marshuetz estimated that close to 1,200 people witnessed the show. Sweets (mithai) were shared, children waved bright sparklers, and volunteers handled ground-based firecrackers. Mayor Shawn Klein kicked off the event by lighting a sparkler, and called it “another fantastic Diwali celebration in Livingston; thanks to all of the organizers who help to make Livingston such a vibrant and wonderful place to live.” Noting that Sanskriti could not hold its popular indoor party for hundreds of people, Juvekar said, “After a break in 2020 due to COVID, this year, Sanskriti was eager to celebrate Diwali with the whole community and put the pandemic behind us.” She also thanked the township for its support, including township officials and departments, emergency responders, as well as St. Philomena Parish for the use of its parking lot. For additional photos of the event, see page B-3. LFD and EL Photos ...
