On Saturday, November 2nd, the heart of downtown San Antonio was aglow with the vibrant colors and festive spirit of Diwali. This year’s city-sponsored Diwali celebration was made even more special by the addition of a river barge parade competition—a first for Diwali SA! SUMA (San Antonio United Malayalee Association) joined the competition with immense pride and a deep commitment to representing Kerala’s rich culture. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our community members, volunteers, and friends, SUMA earned a well-deserved 3rd place, standing tall among a diverse lineup of cultural showcases.
A Unified Effort and a Proud Recognition
SUMA’s river barge display beautifully highlighted the traditional art forms, cultural heritage, and religious unity that Kerala is known for, making the name “United Malayalee Association” shine with even greater meaning. The barge’s intricate decorations and thoughtful presentation showcased Kerala’s artistic and cultural legacy, capturing the spirit of unity and harmony that defines our community.
This accomplishment wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteers and supporters who contributed their time, energy, and creativity to make this vision a reality. A heartfelt thank you to each of you for helping us achieve this incredible milestone!
A Message from Diwali SA
Diwali SA shared a warm message of appreciation for all participants, stating:
“We would like to once again thank you for your enthusiastic participation in the Diwali SA River Parade. This is the first year we have made the parade a competition. Congratulations to all of you for taking it in stride and putting your best foot forward.”
After a meticulous evaluation by independent judges, who rated each entry based on overall presentation and specific criteria, the winners were announced:
1. 1st Place - Tamil Nadu
2. 2nd Place - Uttar Pradesh
3. 3rd Place - Kerala (SUMA)Celebrating Unity Through Diversity
This recognition is not only a celebration of SUMA’s hard work but also a testament to the strength and unity of the Indian community in San Antonio. The event provided an opportunity to celebrate Diwali’s essence—unity, joy, and cultural pride—bringing communities together and fostering greater understanding.
Congratulations to all participants and winners for bringing the Diwali spirit to life on the river! This memorable experience has set the stage for even greater participation in the years to come. Here’s to our shared culture, community pride, and the beautiful display of unity that Diwali represents.
