Trinidad and Tobago: Diwali at Times Square Celebrates 10th Anniversary

This report covers trinidad tobago: diwali times with key details and context.

Diwali at Times Square, recognized as one of the largest South Asian cultural celebrations outside of India, is set to celebrate its tenth anniversary this year. The event has garnered significant attention, reaching over 600 million viewers through major media outlets such as CBS News, NBC News, and USA Today. Additionally, it has engaged over 4.5 million people via social media and television platforms.

Bavina Sookdeo Gopee, a Trinidad and Tobago-born judge, plays a pivotal role in the event and has been a strong advocate for the inclusion of Caribbean representation within the celebration. Gopee, who holds the distinction of being the first Indo-Caribbean Justice of the Supreme Court of New York, has actively promoted Trinidadian culture through various initiatives. Notably, she has been involved in the renaming of a street in Queens to Trinidad and Tobago Street, which reflects her commitment to cultural representation.

Her advocacy efforts have also led to the recognition of Divali as a school holiday in New York and the establishment of a bar association aimed at supporting the professional advancement of South Asians and Indo-Caribbeans. Gopee’s involvement with Diwali at Times Square began three years ago when she attended a press launch for the event. Concerned about the underrepresentation of Caribbean artists, she successfully advocated for performances by Trinidadian artists Joey and Sassy Ramoutar. Furthermore, she nominated Guyanese author Dr. Dhanpaul Narine for an award, highlighting the importance of Caribbean voices in the celebration.

trinidad tobago: diwali times: key developments so far.

This year, soca-chutney artist Raymond Ramnarine is also scheduled to perform, adding to the diverse lineup of artists representing the Caribbean. The event is set to take place on October 12 and will feature a variety of activities, including a Divali Bazaar, a Shri Ganesh procession, and a concert designed to illuminate Times Square.

Gopee emphasizes that the celebration extends beyond just lights and music; it is fundamentally about fostering inclusivity and ensuring that Caribbean voices are acknowledged and celebrated within a global context. The event aims to create a space where diverse cultures can come together, share their traditions, and promote understanding among different communities.

As Diwali at Times Square approaches its tenth anniversary, it continues to serve as a platform for cultural exchange and representation, reflecting the rich tapestry of South Asian and Caribbean cultures. The event not only celebrates the festival of lights but also highlights the contributions of Caribbean artists and the importance of inclusivity in cultural celebrations.

With its impressive reach and impact, Diwali at Times Square remains a significant event for both the South Asian and Caribbean communities, showcasing the vibrant cultures and traditions that contribute to the multicultural landscape of New York City.