The Indian Community of Needham is bringing its Diwali celebration to Needham High School on Saturday, Nov. 14.
The nonprofit group, known as ICON, will host a Diwali and Cultural Night from 6 to 10 p.m. at the school, 609 Webster St. The evening will feature cultural performances, Indian cuisine, music and dancing with a DJ, according to the town's event calendar.
The event doubles as a fundraiser for ICON, according to the group's ticket page. All are welcome, but tickets are required. Prices vary, with separate rates for ICON members and non-members. Tickets can be purchased at icon.raklet.com.
ICON was founded in 2019 and hosts cultural events throughout the year tied to holidays such as Diwali in the fall and Holi in the spring, the Needham Observer reported in August. The group drew about 300 people to Powers Hall for its India Day celebration that month.
Hemant Chowdhary, ICON's president, told Needham Local in coverage published in August that the group's events aim to "keep that cultural connection alive" for second-generation children born in the United States. About 10% of Needham's population identifies as Asian, according to U.S. Census data cited in that report.
Anumeha Srivastava, ICON's communications chair, told the Needham Observer in August that India's states each have distinct customs and cultures, which performers at the India Day event showcased through traditional clothing and dance. Chowdhary told the Observer he was pleased that the celebration drew residents from outside the Indian community.
The Nov. 14 Diwali and Cultural Night starts at 6 p.m. at Needham High School.
