India Tribune Newsdesk
St. Louis, MO: Nearly 500 students, families, and community members gathered on October 23, 2026, at the Hindu Temple Cultural & Educational Center in Ballwin, Missouri, for the ninth annual Navratri and Deepavali Festival organized by HindiUSA St. Louis. The celebration showcased India's rich cultural traditions while strengthening community bonds among younger generations.
The festivities opened with a traditional Durga Aarti led by HindiUSA teachers, followed by colorful Garba and Dandiya performances featuring students and teachers in traditional Indian attire. Attendees enjoyed Indian cuisine, shopping stalls, children's activities, face painting, balloon art, and raffle prizes. A spectacular fireworks display by licensed professionals added excitement to the evening, which continued with adult Garba, Dandiya, and Bollywood music.
Established in 2018 with just 22 students, HindiUSA St. Louis has grown into a major Hindi language school, now serving 240 registered students with the support of 40 volunteer teachers and approximately 10 youth volunteers. Many youth volunteers are former students who have returned to help teach the next generation.
The volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) nonprofit is the largest Hindi language school in the Midwest and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). Its students have also begun receiving foreign language credits recognized by three local public schools.
"Our annual Navratri and Deepavali celebration is centered around children. Beyond learning Hindi, we want our students to experience Indian traditions, develop lasting friendships, and carry their cultural heritage forward with pride," said Mayank Jain, school coordinator.
HindiUSA St. Louis expressed gratitude to its volunteer teachers, parents, youth volunteers, event committee, and community supporters for making the celebration a success.
Through language education and cultural activities, the organization continues to connect young Indian-Americans with their roots and heritage.
