Indian Festival of Lights “Diwali” to Happen in Rio’s Barra this Friday

By Beatriz Miranda, Contributing Reporter

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – This Friday, November 17th, Rio will have the opportunity to experience some of India’s Hindu culture with “Diwali”, the Festival of Lights. Taking place at Yndu Beach Lounge, in Barra da Tijuca, the event has been created by Roshni Thakker, an American expatriate and director of the travel company Xperiencerio.

One of the most important events in India, the Festival of Lights aims to celebrate, in essence, the victory of Light (Good, Wisdom) over Darkness (Ignorance, Evil).

For Thakker, who has lived in Rio for eight years, the “Carioca Diwali” is also a party to show her gratitude to people, including friends, expats, locals, her workmates and employees.

“This event makes me reflect upon how I can be a better human, and divine filled with love. When our guests feel the love that was put into this event for them, they share that kindness with the next. Three words: kindness generates kindness”, says Thakker, refering to Carioca’s popular proverb, “gentileza gera gentileza”.

One of the aspects that makes the “Carioca Diwali” so special is its venue, the Yndu Beach Lounge. Run by an Indian descent, the Lounge completely brings the audience into the authentic Hindu atmosphere. Not forgetting, it offers a privileged view to Barra beach.

One of the event’s highlights will be the three course Indian meal, which includes a Bombay street food favorite and an Indian vegan version of brigadeiro. “Chef Renata Brito da Silva learned these dishes from my mother, and nails it. It will be very special for me to taste my mother’s food, even with her far”, says Thakker, who will present a Bollywood (Indian pop cinema) dance to the audience.

Attractions like henna painting, Indian massage, astrology, fire and light shows will also help creating the party’s Hindu atmosphere.

“What’s more, the audience will have the opportunity to learn interesting facts about India and its Gods, and listen to the introduction of the Five Tibetan Rites, ‘The Foutain of Youth'”, adds the American expat.

Running the pick ups will be DJ Marcello Garcia, who has already played at Rock in Rio, bringing a great selection of electronic music and other genres.

What: Diwali – Festival of Lights
When: this Friday, November 17th – 6PM
Where: Yndu Beach Lounge – Avenida Pepê, 930 – Barra
Entrance: FREE – RSVP: [email protected]