Diwali Celebration – October 25, 2025
Diwali is celebrated 15 days after the full moon in the eighth month of the Hindu calendar each year. The festival is typically celebrated from the middle of October to the beginning of November on the Gregorian calendar. It is one of the most important festivals and holidays celebrated in India and other South Asian countries such as Fiji, Nepal, Malaysia, and Singapore. Different regions in India have different traditions when celebrating Diwali. The celebration lasts for five days and begins with cleaning and decorating homes with lights, candles, and idols to honor the divine. In the evenings, people light rows of lamps and candles, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Fireworks and firecrackers are set off to drive away evil spirits. During the celebration, women often wear traditional saris, while men dress in kurtas, marking a fresh start and festive spirit.
On Saturday, October 25, the AAPI Cultural Center hosted a Diwali celebration featuring dynamic Indian folk and classical dance performances, traditional music, and the enchanting sounds of a live veena ensemble to honor the Indian culture and heritage.
Our Program
I. Veena Ensemble Performance by the Gayathri Veenalayam
II. Diwali: A Celebration of Light, Joy, and Tradition – Presentation
III. Folk Dance Performance by the Wings School of Arts
IV. Classical Dance Performance by the Natyalaya School of Dance
V. Dance Performance by ACC Students and Staff
Our Artists
Gayathri Veenalayam
Gayathri Veenalayam, a music school founded and led by Mrs. Gayathri Venkateswaran, an accomplished veena artist and teacher with over 30 years of experience performing and teaching globally. She is a dedicated disciple of both Rajesh Vaidhya garu and Phani Narayana garu, and continues their legacy through her teaching and performances.
Gayathri Veenalayam is affiliated with SAMPADA, a prestigious certificate program for Indic arts.
Wings School of Arts
Founded by Mumal Joshi | In association with Rajasthani Culture Association
At Wings School of Arts, the mission is to keep the vibrant heritage of Rajasthan alive through its most beautiful expression – folk dance. Established in 2017, Wings has been dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating traditional Rajasthani art forms that are slowly disappearing with time.
From the soulful Ghoomar to the energetic Kalbeliya and the devotional Terah Taali, every dance form tells a story of Rajasthan’s rich traditions. Over the years, Wings has trained passionate learners and now offers certifications affiliated with Kalrav Kala Kendra, Jodhpur (Rajasthan) for these authentic art forms.
This year, Wings is proud to present “Terah Taali”, a rare and unique transformation of Rajasthani folk dance showcasing the essence and beauty of culture like never before.
Natyalaya School of Dance
Founded in 1982, Natyalaya is a premier dance institution in Central Texas specializing in the art of Bharatanatyam, a classical South Indian dance form.
With a legacy spanning over four decades, Natyalaya students perform at venues across Texas, regularly placing and earning honors at competitions.
In the Austin area, Natyalaya is known for its original, award-winning, and professional-level productions. Each summer, the school proudly showcases the skills of 6-10 accomplished students as they perform their Arangetrams, or solo debut performances.
center hours
Monday–Friday
9 am – 6 pm
(Closed 1–2 pm for lunch)
address
ACC-Northridge Campus
11928 Stonehollow Drive
Austin, TX 78758
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