ASB Communications

10/19/2025

We keep shining- just a little later! 💫
Diwali at Times Square will now light up NYC on Sunday, November 9th, 2025 🪔

10/19/2025

09/04/2025

Join us on October 12th at Diwali at Times Square as we celebrate 10 years of Diwali in North America! Making history 🌟

In association with Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka-October 11–12 in San Francisco, California, and Diwali Festival of Lights- October 11–12 in Toronto, Canada.

Bring your family and friends and get ready for all the Diwali fun! 🪔
Stay tuned for more updates and surprises.

12/20/2024

Neeta Bhasin, Appointed to the First-Ever NY State Asian American and Pacific Islander’s Commission.
On December 12th, a historic event took place with the inauguration of the New York State Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Commission. Thirteen Asian Americans were sworn in, pledging to strengthen the connection between the Asian American community and New York State. Queens College and its President, Frank H Wu, graciously hosted the ceremony.
Neeta Bhasin, the founder of Diwali at Times Square and Sammaan for All, was sworn in along with other Commission members and Chair Gaurav Vasisht. The Commission aims to enhance the economic and social well-being of AAPI communities and address their health and educational needs.
The Commission's role includes making policy recommendations, coordinating programs, implementing public education campaigns, and raising awareness about state and local resources for AAPI individuals.
The Asian American population in the USA is the fastest-growing ethnic community. This unprecedented growth has come with unique challenges, including increased hate crimes.
NYS Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Indian American legislator, introduced the AAPI Commission Bill, which was unanimously passed by the legislators in the Capitol.
On February 7th, 2024, NYS Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill, joining more than 12 states with similar commissions and the White House.
New York State Governor Kathleen Hochul, who could not join in person, shared her message. “Welcome to the first-ever meeting of the NYS Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission. We established this Commission because your voices are essential to our state’s future, and we are always looking to gain a deeper understanding of one another. We invested $35 million to protect Asian American New Yorkers from Hate Crime and set $30 Million to local AAPI organizations to serve their communities”.
More than 300 people attended the ceremony, including NYS Senator Jeremy Cooney and NY State Senator Jeremy Cooney, raised in an orphanage home in Calcutta, India.
Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar is behind the NYC Diwali School Holiday and AAPI bill and Assemblywoman Grace Lee.
Supreme Court Judges Karen Gopee and Karen Lin.
Shawn Ma, Director, and Sibu Nair, Deputy Director of Asian American Affairs.
The host committee of the public hearing was the NY State Department of the State.
The Chair of the Asian American and Pacific Islander is Gaurav Vasisht. The members of the commissions are Ambrosia Kaul, Andrew Sta. Ana, Neeta Bhasin, Dr. Joyce Wu, Jeffrey Gu, Faustina Sein, Marjorie Hsu, Kyung Yoon,
Tai Ngo Shaw, Peter Tu, Maf Misbah Uddin, Tim Law.

11/22/2024

10/30/2024

We’re thrilled to announce Kia’s return as our
presenting sponsor for Diwali at Times Square in 2024!
🌟

This year, we celebrate the Festival of Lights with a
partner that shares our commitment to fostering a
diverse, dynamic, and inclusive cultural experience.
Thanks to Kia’s dedication, Times Square will shine
brighter than ever, honoring traditions that unite
communities. This enduring partnership brings together
the best of both worlds, blending timeless Indian
heritage with cutting-edge technology, both on the road.

10/24/2024

Beyond the stunning lights and sweets, Diwali carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning, Neeta Bhasin tells CBS News New York.

10/21/2024

Diwali at Times Square Live Broadcast. If you missed being in Times Square on Saturday, October 19th, 2024.
Showcasing the Diversity of India and America.
Diya Lighting Ceremony with Countdown on the Tallest Screen of Times Square
Light Up Times Square Concert - Grammy Award Nominee

10/16/2024

Are you ready with your Diwali special outfit to celebrate with us on Saturday Oct 19th in Times Square. We have only 4 days to go. .weddings