Diwali Celebration

Diwali marks the beginning of the new year according to the Indian lunar calendar. This jubilant holiday is observed by millions across India and its diaspora, including Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs worldwide.

In honor of Diwali, we’re pleased to welcome the internationally renowned Roobina Karode, Curator and Director of the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) in Delhi. Her talk entitled “We Have Stories to Tell…” reflects on the journey of building KNMA’s exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art from South Asia.

The day continues with events every hour to celebrate this wonderful holiday.

All Day Drop-In Art Activities
10 AM–4:30 PM | Rangoli and Diwali lamp making

Appropriate for all ages, these Diwali-inspired crafts are offered throughout the day. As Diwali falls on the darkest night of the year, it is often celebrated by lighting small lamps. A traditional Indian art form associated with festivities, rangoli uses colored powders to create beautiful decorative patterns.

Curator’s Talk: Roobina Karode
11 AM–12:30 PM | “We have Stories to Tell…” At the Cusp of Transformation: Narratives from the KNMA Collection (please RSVP: [email protected])

Chef Talk and Tasting: Priyanka Kothari
12:45 PM | From Rajasthan to the Bay Area, chef Priyanka Kothari shares stories of her journey as a chef and her take on traditional Diwali sweets. Come learn about her vision of the holiday and enjoy a tasting.

Dance Performance: Labonee Monhata
2 PM | Experience both traditional and modern South Asian dance with solo performances and an ensemble featuring youth dancers.

Monthly Makers: Ankoor Patel
3 PM | Take part in a deeply rooted South Asian tradition with this hands-on art project exploring the intersection of poetry, art, and daily life, guided by artist Ankoor Patel. Engage a variety of materials, media, and techniques as you incorporate your written words into art pieces and objects inspired by the Asian Art Museum collection.

Mahjong at the Museum
10:30 AM–4 PM | Every Sunday, join us in Bogart Court for drop-in games courtesy of Mahjong Movement. Need to learn how to play or brush up on the rules? We’ve got helpful teachers ready to welcome you into the game.