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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline OCTOBER 23, 2026 | The Indian Eye 22

cultural roots. cials underscored Edison’s contin-
A Vibrant Marketplace with ued commitment to cultural diversity,
More Than 70 Vendor Stalls community engagement and the cele-
Throughout the afternoon and bration of the many traditions repre-
evening, visitors explored a bustling sented within its population.
Dushahra Mela featuring more than A special VIP reception brought
70 vendor booths offering a wide vari- together distinguished guests, elected
ety of products and services. officials, community leaders, sponsors
The marketplace featured tradi- and supporters, providing an oppor-
tional Indian clothing, exquisite jew- tunity to recognize those whose con-
elry, fashion accessories, decorative tributions have helped sustain the fes-
items, plants, Hindi-language books, tival over the years.
and other merchandise reflecting the Continuing the Legacy of Late
richness of Indian traditions. Shri Mangal Gupta
Banking institutions, insurance The Grand Dushahra Festival
companies, financial service provid- has a remarkable history dating back
ers and community organizations also to 1999, when it was founded by the
participated, connecting with thou- meaningful community initiatives. Ajay Patil. late Shri Mangal Gupta, whose vision
sands of visitors and sharing informa- was to establish a major public cele-
Welcoming the gathering, Mayor
The organizers expressed sincere
tion about their services. appreciation to Agrawal Samaj of Joshi recognized the significance of bration of Indian heritage and tradi-
Food enthusiasts enjoyed a tions in New Jersey.
tempting selection of authentic In- USA and the participating medical the Dushahra Festival as an estab- What began as a community cul-
lished part of Edison’s cultural land-
professionals for their valuable contri-
dian delicacies, traditional snacks, bution to public health and communi- scape. tural initiative has grown into one of
sweets and festive treats, bringing the the Tri-State region’s major annual
“The Dushahra Festival has be-
flavors and aromas of an Indian mar- ty well-being. come a tradition of Edison Township, Indian festivals, attracting thousands
ketplace to the heart of Edison. Mayor Sam Joshi Inaugurates and we are pleased to have this won- of families and visitors.
The colorful vendor tents, enthu- the Festival The 2026 celebration marked the
siastic shoppers, delicious food and The festival was formally inaugu- derful celebration here in Edison,” 28th Grand Dushahra Festival, con-
festive music created a wonderful rated by Edison Township Mayor Sam Mayor Joshi remarked. tinuing the legacy established by its
The presence of township offi-
family-friendly atmosphere through- Joshi, accompanied by Councilman founder and sustained through the
out the day. dedication of volunteers, community
Free Medical Screenings and Flu organizations and generous supporters.
Shots Benefit Hundreds For nearly three decades, In-
Beyond cultural entertainment, do-American Festivals, Inc., a volun-
the festival demonstrated its commit- teer-driven nonprofit organization,
ment to community welfare through has remained committed to preserv-
a free medical screening and health ing Indian culture, promoting com-
awareness camp organized by Agraw- munity harmony and passing on tradi-
al Samaj of USA. tional values to future generations.
Qualified physicians and health- Festival Leadership Emphasizes
care professionals generously volun- Unity, Heritage and Community Ser-
teered their time to provide medical vice. Chanchal Gupta, Chairperson
consultations, health screenings and of Indo-American Festivals, Inc., ex-
free flu vaccinations. pressed heartfelt appreciation to Ed-
Hundreds of festival attendees ison Township and its leadership.
benefited from these complimentary “We are deeply grateful to Mayor
healthcare services, making the med- Sam Joshi, Edison Township and the
ical camp one of the event’s most Continued on next page... >>

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