Devotees returned in droves to the local Las Vegas Hindu Mandirs and Sikh Gurudwaras to celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chor Divas with community festivities.

Over 600 attendees gathered at the Krishna Mandir for the Diwali Mela and celebrated the Festival of Lights with family and friends. The event blended spirituality with festive fun, as attendees participated in religious ceremonies and enjoyed a vibrant carnival atmosphere filled with festive shopping, colorful stalls, and a wide array of delicious Indian street food—from freshly prepared Dosa & Chholey Bhaturey to Indian desserts, Tibetan dumplings, and more.

In stark contrast to the dark and quiet Diwali of 2024, which saw fewer than 40 attendees, this year’s celebration marked a joyful resurgence at the Hindu & Jain Temple of Las Vegas. More than 300 members of the Hindu community took part in the religious services led by the Mandir’s priests, Brijesh and Vishnu ji, followed by a community dinner generously sponsored by multiple donors.

Both the Krishna Mandir and the Hindu Mandir hosted fireworks for children to celebrate Diwali, the cherished festival of lights. At Krishna Mandir, the organizers went a step further to create a magical experience for young attendees. To keep children busy, they were treated to an entertaining clown performance, fireworks, and had the chance to jump and play in a bounce house.

The three local Gurdwaras also came together to celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, marking the occasion with spiritual devotion, community service, and vibrant festivities. The celebrations began with special prayers and kirtan (devotional singing), honoring the significance of Bandi Chor Divas, which coincide with Diwali, as a historic day when Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji secured the release of 52 Hindu kings from imprisonment, symbolizing freedom and righteousness.

Each Gurdwara welcomed hundreds of devotees who participated in the langar prepared and served by volunteers as a gesture of equality and service. The festive spirit continued into the evening with fireworks displays.