India-West News Desk
SAN JOSE, CA – The Association of Indo Americans (AIA) and Bolly 92.3 transformed Downtown San Jose into a vibrant kaleidoscope of color on March 14, for the annual Holi Fest. The day-long cultural celebration drew a massive “floating” crowd of over 15,000 attendees to the city’s picturesque urban center.
The festival was bolstered by the collective support of more than 50 Indian organizations from across the Bay Area. Throughout the afternoon of March 14, participants celebrated the arrival of spring by playfully tossing bright colored powders at one another in a spirit of joy and community.
The significance of the gathering was highlighted by a guest list of local and federal leaders. Among the dignitaries in attendance were Congressman Sam Liccardo, Assemblymember Ash Kalra, Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan, and Santa Clara County Supervisor Betty Duong. They were joined by San Jose Downtown Association CEO Brian Kurtz, Sunnyvale City Council member Murali Srinivasan, and Fremont City Council member Yang Shao. San Jose City Council members Domingo Candelas, Bien Doan, and David Cohen also participated in the festivities.
Following the event, many of these officials shared pictures and inspiring messages on social media regarding their participation.
Organizers noted that the high turnout on March 14 further solidifies Holi Fest as a landmark cultural event for the Silicon Valley region.