USA
On August 9, 2024, the Rajasthani Organization of American Residents (ROAR) and Jhoom Events celebrated the 8th Annual Rajasthani Teej Mahotsav at Royal Alberts Palace in Edison. The event, led by Mrs. Tarang Soni, President of ROAR and CEO of Jhoom Events, was a vibrant and elaborate celebration that brought together over 1,000 members of the Indian and Rajasthani diaspora.
Teej Festival Kicks Off with a Grand Procession
The Mahotsav began at 4 PM with a traditional pagadi bandhai ceremony, where members were welcomed with dhol/nagada and tilaks, setting the festive tone. Despite weather warnings of thunderstorms and tornadoes, attendees from across the United States, including states like Massachusetts, California, and North Carolina, showed up in full Rajasthani attire, reflecting their deep-rooted love for their culture.
The festivities truly began at 6 PM with the procession of Teej Mata, starting with a pooja at Neel Kamal Hall. The procession featured Kalbelia dances, fire performances, and traditional rituals, led by the ROAR Teej Queen. Children dressed as Padmavati, Shiva, and Parvati added a special touch, leading the Kalash Yatra, where women carried traditional kalash and matakas on their heads, followed by Teej Mata.
Festivities Continue with Cultural Performances and Pageant
By 7 PM, Teej Mata had entered the ballroom, accompanied by ghanta dhwani, shanknaad, and the chanting of shlokas. The event’s official start was marked by a diya lighting ceremony performed by ROAR Patrons Advisors Smt. Tarang Soni, Shri Naveen Shah, Shri Mukesh Modi, Dr. Ravi Muraraka, and distinguished guests like Padmashree Dr. Sudhir Parikh and Ms. Pragya Singh, Consul (Visa and Community Affairs) from the NY Indian Consulate.
The opening dance performance by the ladies of ROAR set the stage for the evening. Following the dance, the 2nd International Rajasthani Pageant commenced, judged by notable personalities including Bollywood producer Mukesh Modi, Brenda Bjerke, and Neha Bhansali, the 1st International Mrs. Rajasthan.
Kareena Jain won the Miss Rajasthan International title, with Megha Mohnot as the first runner-up. Sarah Gupta claimed the Miss Teen Rajasthan International title, with Vedvalli Vyas and Mati Rajvashi as the first and second runners-up, respectively. In the Mrs. Rajasthan International category, Tina Goyal emerged victorious, followed by Shreya Dixit and Sanju Purohit.
Special awards were also given out, including the Padmavati Award to Nikita Goyal and the Teej Queen title to Akshi Bansal. Vandana Tambi won the Melodious Voice title, while Ritu Dewan was named Fashion Icon.
Cultural Homage and Musical Extravaganza
The event also paid tribute to Ms. Shobhana Patel, the Maharani Saa Title winner for 2023, for her contributions to the community. Last year’s pageant winners, including Neha Bhansali and Priyal Garg, showcased their talents with traditional dances and songs.
The evening culminated in a live concert by popular singer Khuda Baksh, who captivated the audience with a blend of Rajasthani and Indian songs, keeping the crowd grooving until midnight.
Culinary Delights and Acknowledgments
The Mahotsav also featured a shopping area with Rajasthani dresses, jewelry, and traditional snacks. Attendees enjoyed a lavish spread of Rajasthani cuisine, including favorites like Dal-Baati-Churma, Ghevar, and Gol Gappe. An open bar and premium drinks added to the festive spirit.
ROAR President Tarang Soni expressed her gratitude to all the delegates, sponsors, media, attendees, volunteers, and members of ROAR for their unwavering support, ensuring the success of the Teej Mahotsav 2024. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, ROAR had successfully continued the tradition of celebrating Teej, adhering to safety guidelines and maintaining the cultural connection.
