Henna, heritage, harmony take stage at AAPI fest

More than 600 South Jerseyans – including one from Voorhees – gathered on May 18 at the fifth annual AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) Heritage Month Festival in Cherry Hill, an increasingly cherished tradition that continues to grow in size, spirit and cultural richness.

Held for three-plus hours at Cherry Hill West High School, the festival was a vivid celebration of Asian cultures, with Indian heritage as one of its most visually resonant highlights. Attendees were treated to intricate henna tattoos, traditional folk-dance performances and hands-on interactions that brought Indian customs to life.

At the heart of the cultural immersion was township resident Sapana Raval, a master folk-dance performer, henna tattoo artist and cultural ambassador. A member of the Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Club and the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions, Raval used both her art and her voice to invite attendees into the beauty and meaning of Indian traditions.

“For many, henna was a completely new experience,” Raval shared. “Attendees were captivated by the designs and fascinated to learn about the cultural significance behind them. Others shared personal memories, reminding them of family celebrations and rituals.

“It became a beautiful exchange of stories and appreciation.”

Henna – known in India as mehndi – is often applied during weddings, festivals and other celebrations. Its delicate, natural dye patterns serve as both ornamentation and storytelling, according to Raval, two facets she emphasized in her live demonstrations and community interactions.

Equally powerful were the folk-dance performances she led, which pulsed with the energy of celebration and community.

“Henna and folk dance are more than visual experiences,” she explained. “They’re acts of storytelling and connection. These traditions belong in every cultural celebration.”

This year’s AAPI festival, hosted by the Asian American Alliance in South Jersey (AAASJ), not only marked its fifth installment, but was also the largest to date. The celebration featured crafts, food vendors and multi-cultural performances ranged from Cambodian dance to Korean drumming. But Indian culture played a uniquely connective role.

“Our vision this year was all about inclusion,” noted Nina Gao, president of AAASJ. “We wanted to welcome new AAPI community members and connect more deeply with our non-Asian neighbors.”

That vision was realized with participation and support from Cherry Hill schools, Virtua Health, FourLeaf Credit Union and the Perkins Center for the Arts.

“This event has truly evolved,” Gao added. “What began as a smaller community celebration has grown into a shared cultural experience that promotes unity and understanding.”

Behind the festival’s success is months of planning by AAASJ board members and volunteers. Other community outreach efforts – such as October’s Wellness 5K Walk and a high-school scholarship program – have helped raise awareness and build lasting connections.

“This is our second year co-hosting with Cherry Hill public schools,” Gao said. “Their support has been instrumental in reaching local families and students. And our sponsors make it possible to keep the event free and accessible to all.”

As the final notes of music played and the last rounds of henna dried under the spring sun, one thing was clear: The festival was more than a day of entertainment. It was a tapestry of cultural pride, woven with the stories and artistry of people like Raval.

“We want young people to take away a sense of pride in their heritage,” Gao pointed out. “But also a commitment to serve their communities. This festival is a celebration of our diversity, and a reminder that we’re all stronger when we come together.”

Residents interested in joining the Asian American Alliance in South Jersey or supporting upcoming events -including the next major celebration in October – can visit the group’s website or follow @aaasouthjersey on social media.