Diwali Carnival with Vidya Vox Lights Up Downtown San Jose- Historic event!!

Presented jointly by the San Jose Downtown Association, City of San Jose, Mayor Matt Mahan, PARKSJ, Association of Indo Americans (AIA) and Bolly 92.3FM

The heart of Silicon Valley was illuminated like never before! The first-ever Diwali Celebration in Downtown San Jose made history with a spectacular explosion of lights, culture, and music — headlined by the sensational Vidya Vox, who captivated the crowd with her electrifying fusion beats. Throughout the program, it was estimated that over 10,000 people from San Jose and surrounding areas flocked to Downtown San Jose to take part in the celebration and experience the vibrant Diwali festivities.

San Jose Downtown Association, City of San Jose, Mayor Matt Mahan, PARKSJ, Association of Indo Americans (AIA) and Bolly 92.3FM have jointly brought Diwali — the Festival of Lights — to the center of San Jose for the very first time. The celebration transformed Plaza de Cesar Chavez into a vibrant carnival filled with cultural performances, music, food stalls, vendor booths, and carnival games.

The evening began with energetic Bollywood dance performances by talented artists from various Bay Area dance schools, setting an electrifying tone for the night. The organizers also offered impromptu dance opportunities for enthusiastic members of the audience, inviting them to share the stage and celebrate together. A spontaneous flash mob by attendees added a delightful surprise and elevated the festive energy. The night culminated with an unforgettable DJ dance party, where the entire crowd joined in — mingling, dancing, and celebrating Diwali on a truly high note.

In a touching tribute to cultural diversity and inclusion, San Jose City Hall was illuminated with Diwali-themed lights, symbolizing the city’s embrace of multicultural harmony. The venue was beautifully adorned with traditional Diwali decorations, enhancing the charm and brilliance of the San Jose skyline.

The festival marked a historic milestone for the city — uniting communities in a celebration of light, hope, and togetherness. Attendees were mesmerized by the grandeur and spirit of the event, making it a night to remember.

“This celebration truly reflects the values of our city — inclusivity, diversity, vibrancy, and joy,” said Mayor Matt Mahan, who has been a strong supporter and guiding force behind the event’s vision.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Gumby Marques, CEO of the San Jose Downtown Association (SJDA), expressed his joy over the tremendous success of the celebration — especially as Diwali was celebrated for the first time in Downtown San Jose. In his inspiring words, “You don’t have to be Irish to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, you don’t have to be German to celebrate Oktoberfest, and you don’t have to be Indian to enjoy Diwali.” His message resonated deeply, encouraging thousands of people from diverse communities to join the festivities — truly making it a “Diwali for All.”

During the event, the organizers presented “Award of Excellence” to Assemblymember Ash Kalra for his remarkable community leadership and passage of AB 268 making Diwali an official state holiday in California.

Another “Award of Excellence” was presented to Community Leader Mr. Ajay Bhutoria for his strong, influential leadership within the Indian diaspora and his pivotal role in securing Governor Gavin Newsom’s vetoes of SB 509 and SB 403.

The AIA’s Diwali Carnival beautifully showcased the vibrancy, diversity, and inclusive spirit of San Jose — setting a shining example of how cultural celebrations can build bridges and light up entire communities.

The event was graced by over 20 elected officials and dignitaries as follows – all of whom extended their warm Diwali greetings to the jubilant crowd. The presence of officials from San Jose and neighboring cities, along with their inspiring messages and warm greetings, made the attendees enthusiastic and jubilant, adding to the festive spirit of the celebration.

1. Matt Mahan – Mayor, City of San Jose
2. Rakesh Adlakha – Deputy Consul General of India
3. Sam Liccardo – U.S. Congressman (CA-16)
4. Ro Khanna – U.S. Congressman (CA-17) (represented by Tom Pyke, District Director)
5. Ash Kalra – Assemblymember (AD-25)
6. Jeff Rosen – Santa Clara County District Attorney
7. Margaret Abe-Koga – Santa Clara County Supervisor (represented by Rob Moore, Policy Aide)
8. Raj Salwan – Mayor, City of Fremont
9. Carmen Montano – Mayor, City of Milpitas
10. Anthony Tordillos – Councilmember, District 3, City of San Jose
11. Peter Ortiz – Councilmember, District 5, City of San Jose
12. Bien Doan – Councilmember, District 7, City of San Jose
13. Neysa Fligor – Vice Mayor, City of Los Altos
14. Tina Walia – Councilmember, City of Saratoga
15. Yan Zhao – Councilmember, City of Saratoga
16. Yang Shao – Councilmember, City of Fremont
17. Reymond Liu – Councilmember, City of Fremont
18. Rob Moore – Vice Mayor, Town of Los Gatos
19. Raj Chahal – Councilmember, City of Santa Clara
20. Ajay Bhutoria – Former Adviser to President Joe Biden on Asian American & Pacific Islander Affairs
21. Arjun Batra – Former Councilmember, City of San Jose
22. Teresa Cox – Former Councilmember, City of Fremont
23. Gumby Marques – CEO, San Jose Downtown Association (SJDA)
24. Brad Behnke – CEO, Bolly 92.3 FM