BICAS Lights Up Diwali with Cultural Extravaganza

The Bahrain India Cultural & Arts Services (BICAS) celebrated the joyous festival of Diwali with a spectacular event at the Golden Eagle Club in Salmabad, bringing together the expatriate Indian community in a vibrant display of tradition, unity, and festive spirit.

Ceremonial Lamp
The celebration was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Vinod K. Jacob, the Indian Ambassador to Bahrain, who lit the ceremonial lamp symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. In his keynote address, Ambassador Jacob extended warm Diwali greetings, highlighting the festival’s timeless message of peace, harmony, and renewal. He also offered words of hope on global affairs, praising ongoing ceasefire efforts in the Israel-Palestine conflict as a step toward international stability and coexistence.

Strengthening Cultural Ties
BICAS President Bhagwan Asarpota delivered the presidential address, affirming the society’s role in promoting cultural heritage and integration. “This Diwali celebration reaffirms BICAS’s commitment to keeping our cultural traditions alive while fostering peace in our adopted home,” he said.

The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Vice President Mahesh Devji, Mona George Koro, Senior Community Affairs Specialist at the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, and Pambavasan Nair, Founder of the Amad Group.

Rangoli Competition
The festivities, which drew over 2,000 members of the expatriate community, began in the morning with an enchanting rangoli competition, where participants showcased intricate floral and geometric designs using vibrant powders.

As evening approached, the program transformed into a cultural kaleidoscope of performances representing various Indian states. Traditional dances, music, and folk arts captivated the audience with their energy and diversity.

Dance Performance
The highlight of the evening was a Dandiya dance performance choreographed by DJ Nirmal. Dancers in colorful costumes moved with grace and synchronization under twinkling lights, infusing the atmosphere with infectious festive cheer.

The event was widely hailed as a successful celebration of cultural heritage and community unity in Bahrain.