- By Arathi Cowlagi

ISW and WAM Celebrate a decade of lightA history of the Diwali partnership between the India Society of Worcester and the Worcester Art Museum

What began as a promising new partnership has blossomed into one of Worcester's most vibrant and beloved cultural events.This November, the India Society of Worcester (ISW) and the Worcester Art Museum (WAM) will mark the 10th year of their annual Diwali Community Day celebration. Over the last decade, this collaboration has grown from a single day of programming into an annual cultural fixture, drawing over a thousand plus visitors from the entire Central Massachusetts community.

Jagan Srinivasan captures the spirit of the first year!

A powerful beginning

The journey began with a shared vision to bring the ancient Indian festival of light to a broader audience in Worcester. A partnership between the India Society of Worcester and the Worcester Art Museum was a natural fit. With a mission to reach and connect communities through art, WAM was a great partner to bring these cultural traditions to a wider audience. ISW, a vibrant cultural and educational organization, was excited to share their Indian heritage on a larger scale.The first event was a testament to the power of collaboration, with ISW volunteers working alongside WAM staff to create a day of performances and programs for all ages.

Visitors fill the Renaissance Court for the cultural performances, picture by Ashish Cowlagi

Lamp lighting in the Covid year at the museum, before pivoting to virtual programming

Growing the flame

Year after year, the event has expanded, adding new layers of cultural richness. Even during the Covid year, this annual event pivoted and went virtual. Early celebrations featured essential elements like lamp-lighting ceremonies, traditional dances and vocal performances showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, in WAM's magnificent Renaissance Court.

Over time, the program grew to include:

• A lineup of classical & folk dances and vocal performances, including dances like Kathak, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam
• Talented local artists display traditional painting, sculpture, calligraphy
• Docent led tours highlighting WAM's collection of art from the Indian subcontinent and its diaspora
• Storytime by local authors
• Delicious Indian cuisine from local vendors
• Henna & craft activities for families, chess lessons for all ages
• Foot tapping beats of Indian drums with ISW Dhol Tasha team

Visitors enjoy the always popular Henna

Talented local artists display- Susmita Bando featured here

Playing Chess

Troy B Thompson captures one of the many beautiful cultural performances

Children’s Storytime with Farhana Zia

A celebration for all

From its promising start, the Diwali celebration has solidified its place as a significant and much awaited annual event. WAM has helped ensure that the celebration is accessible to everyone, attracting record crowds by offering free admission for the day as a part of its partnership with the community.

”This event is now one of the most anticipated community traditions in Worcester” says Arathi Cowlagi, ISW volunteer and chair of this event for ISW. “It brings people of all backgrounds and ages together, to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.”

“The partnership is more than just an event; it's a living example of how a museum can serve as a true community hub, fostering intercultural understanding and celebrating the vibrant diversity of its city.” said Aileen Novick Manager of Public and Education Programs at Worcester Art Museum.

This November 2nd, Sunday from 10:30am to 4pm, the India Society of Worcester at the Worcester Art Museum invites the community to celebrate a decade of cultural collaboration and community spirit.

Learn about India’ and ISW table with Carolyn Passey

ISW Dhol Tasha team