San Antonio Standard

SAN ANTONIO  – The sights, sounds, flavor and traditions of India will illuminate Hemisfair and Arneson River Theatre at the 15th Annual Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 4:30 p.m. to midnight. This popular event is free to the public, celebrating fifteen years as a cultural attraction which honors the diversity of India and features traditional Indian dance, entertainment, food, and crafts. Diwali San Antonio is hosted by AnujaSA and the City of San Antonio.

The tradition of Diwali is a celebration of the triumph of light over dark and reflects perseverance. The “festival of lights” is recognized on the night of Diwali by placing candles, lamps and lights in homes and streets to light up the night. In San Antonio, DiwaliSA is significant because this festival was inspired by San Antonio’s Sister-City Agreement with Chennai, India, signed in 2008. 

“San Antonio is honored to support Diwali SA,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “This is more than a festival to our city. This event further connects our community by displaying the comradery that is reflected in the City of San Antonio’s alliance with Chennai, India as a Sister-City. Diwali is a reminder that unity through the promise of positivity and light in the face of any diversity can be overcome with friendship and solidarity. It is with a much joy that I wish families, friends, and everyone celebrating this season, a very Happy Diwali.”   

The Sister-City relationship between San Antonio and Chennai is strong, in part to AnujaSA, whose mission is to foster relationship between these two great cities. AnujaSA has helped to cultivate and sustain numerous exchanges which include Arts and Culture, Medicine, Education, Business and Commerce, and Sports and Recreation.

“We are excited about celebrating the 15th Anniversary of DiwaliSA at the new Civic Park in Hemisfair,” said Anuja SA President Kausi Subramaniam. “This year’s event will feature more entertainment than ever before and a few surprises as well. Come join us as we celebrate this milestone on Saturday, November 4 from 4:30 p.m. until midnight at the Arneson River Theatre and Hemisfair.” 

Since the Sister-City agreement between the City of San Antonio and Chennai, India began in 2008, the two cities have built a strong and lasting relationship. AnujaSA has worked closely with the Global Engagement Division of the City of San Antonio’s Economic Development Department (EDD) to ensure the City continues a strong commitment to providing residents and visitors with creative cultural programming.  

“The annual DiwaliSA is our most important cultural activity held locally celebrating our sister city relationship in India with Chennai and sharing the beautiful culture of India with our residents. The City of San Antonio is a proud partner of this important arts festival which is made possible through partnership, generous sponsors, and a strong volunteer network,” said Sherry Dowlatshahi, Chief Protocol Officer for the City of San Antonio. 

For more information and updates about the Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights, visit DiwaliSA.com or call (833) 4-ANUJASA.

Original source can be found here.