International Student Organization (ISO) and Asian Pacific Islander Student Alliance (APISA) came together to hold a celebration for the festival of Diwali. Diwali is celebrated by millions of Hindus and South Asians around the world. Although the actual day of Diwali is on October 31st, ISO and APISA had their celebration on November 3rd in University Commons in common grounds, student union, and the hall of nations. What is Diwali you may ask? Diwali is a festival that symbolizes the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is often referred to as the festival of lights, it is a time for religious rituals and sharing traditional stories. It is also an opportunity to spruce up the area with lights and candles, while partying, feasting, and exchanging gifts.
The celebration that ISO and APISA held had many lights and candles, assortments of appetizers and foods from Taj of India. The different types of appetizers they had were samosas, tandoori chicken, alu tikki, momo, pakora, biryani chicken, and sauces with cola, twisted soda, and mango lassi. There were many people that showed up to help out within ISO and APISA and others that came to celebrate Diwali with them. The importance of this holiday is evident within Hindus and other Indian regions. Admissions faculty, Arushi Sanchan, who is a south east asian, says Diwali to her and her family marks the start of a new year. What that may mean is letting go of the old and making space for the new. Sanchan says that some of their rituals include deep cleaning of their house, buying gifts for friends and family, making rangoli (colored powder art), lighting a bunch of candles, and gathering around to light up firecrackers and sparklers. Her family and her also dress traditionally and eat Indian food/sweets, and sing/dance with the community. Sanchan gave her thoughts on the event, “It was fun! We ate delicious food and danced a lot. I got to make rangoli, and hang lights while setting up, which was equally as fun!”.
In the perspective of someone who wouldn’t normally celebrate Diwali, we hear from senior Ruth Abera. Abera says it was her first time celebrating Diwali, but it felt meaningful to her. She said she had learned about it through conversations with people who celebrate, and with her participating in it firsthand, it really deepened her understanding of this cultural tradition. She also expressed “It gave me a broader perspective on different cultures and enhanced my appreciation for the diversity around me.” Abera shares that she enjoyed celebrating Diwali this past sunday. The combination of food, music, decorations, and engaging conversations made the experience special for Abera. Abera met new people and connected with others in a way that she wouldn’t have otherwise, which made it more memorable for her. Abera gave some final thoughts, “I’m genuinely grateful that this Diwali celebration was hosted on campus. It offered valuable exposure to the festival for the entire EMU student community, allowing everyone to learn and engage with a beautiful traditional celebration”.
Overall the Diwali celebration held was a huge success, ending with satisfied attendees. People had enjoyed every part of this event, from the food, decorations, music, and conversation. People from different backgrounds got to experience this southeast asian culture and saw and partake in such a beautiful tradition. ISO and APISA are looking in the future to collaborate in more events so be on the lookout for their collaborations!
