Dancers perform in traditional attire during the Diwali celebration, which featured music, dance and cultural performances throughout the day. Photo by Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - More than 2,500 people gathered at Stone Creek Park on Oct. 25 for Suvidha International Diwali 2026, a celebration featuring cultural performances, food, vendors, family activities and an evening fireworks display.

The free Festival of Lights was organized by Suvidha International Foundation in partnership with the city of Rancho Cordova and brought together families, community organizations, businesses and local leaders.

Diwali is celebrated by millions around the world and traditionally symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Festival attendees pose in traditional attire in front of a Diwali-themed backdrop during the Oct. 25 celebration at Stone Creek Park. Photo by Rick Sloan

“Diwali is more than a festival of lights. It celebrates unity, hope and togetherness,” organizing team member Vandna Sharma said. “Through this event, we bring diverse communities together and create lasting memories for families from all backgrounds.”

The festival included performances by The Light of Dance Academy, Team Kaladhaara, BK Raj Yoga Meditation Center, Rhythmic Revolts, Natya Tarang and Seniors of Sacramento. Live music was also provided by the Gongura and Raaganjali groups and individual singers.

Attendees participated in rangoli, costume and traditional Indian attire competitions, while children and families took part in carnival games, henna and a Diwali-themed photo booth.

Nearly 40 food, business and nonprofit vendors participated, offering cuisine, merchandise and information about community organizations.

Rancho Cordova City Council Member Siri Pulipati highlighted the festival’s role in bringing together elected representatives, educational institutions, businesses and community organizations. Photo courtesy of the Suvidha International Foundation

More than 20 elected officials, civic representatives, education leaders and business representatives also attended, according to organizers. Among them were U.S. Rep. Kevin Kiley, Assemblymember Josh Hoover and Rancho Cordova City Council Member Siri Pulipati.

Siri Pulipati highlighted the festival’s role in bringing together elected representatives, educational institutions, businesses and community organizations.

Bhaskar Vempati, founder and president of Suvidha International Foundation, thanked public officials, volunteers, performers, sponsors and community partners for supporting the event.

“This historic recognition sends a powerful message that our cultural heritage is valued and celebrated,” Vempati said while discussing California’s recognition of Diwali. “It reflects California’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and community unity.”

The celebration was brought to life by a committed organizing team led by Bhaskar Vempati, Vandna Sharma, Padmapriya Maddy, Avinash Maddy, Balu Kodavatikanti, Venugopal Acharya, Tripti Varma, Akshatha Nithin, Srinivas Sanka, Jaganmohan Yachavarapu, Syam Yeleti, Prasad Bodapati, Shobha Rao, Ruma Baruah, Lalita Vedula, Dhrubha Kalita, Gayathri Ganeshan, Raajesh Ganeshan, Paresh Sinha, and Nikitha Guntaka.

Suvidha International Foundation is a California-based nonprofit that supports education, youth development and community service programs in the United States and India. Its Sacramento-area programs include after-school activities focused on artificial intelligence, robotics, speech and debate, and career exploration.

A young attendee has a henna design applied to her hand during Suvidha International Diwali 2026 at Stone Creek Park in Rancho Cordova. Photo by Rick Sloan