Diwali | Photo by Arden Reimer | The Wright State Guardian
The Indian Student Association brought the national Indian celebration, Diwali, to life with the spirit of traditional music, dance, food and more.
History of a nation
According to the Hindu American Foundation, Diwali is known as the “Festival of Lights” that is celebrated throughout the Hindu Diaspora. This holiday celebrates the triumph of good over evil that lights, candles, firecrackers and Diya (clay lamps) symbolize.
Diwali is traditionally celebrated over a five-day period with the year of 2022 Diwali celebrations starting on Oct. 21.
Diwali is not solely a traditional Hindu holiday, many religions come together along with those of Indian heritage to celebrate the event.
The celebration
WSU’s Indian Student Association hosted a Diwali celebration on Sat. Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
The Student Union entrance and Apollo Room channeled the spirit of Diwali with glittering fairy lights, flowers, students and families in traditional Indian clothing.
After the introductions concluded, singing and dancing performances began. Performances included everything from traditional Indian dance to modern dance. ISA had been meeting weekly in the weeks leading to Diwali to practice these dance performances.
Students and faculty were then invited to enjoy catering by Cross Roads Biryani, which supplied traditional Indian food. Late-night events included the traditional-wear fashion show and dance party.
No expense was spared on the celebration because, according to Asian Student Association President Ryan Diaz, ISA spent a total of $11,000 with a contribution of $850 from ASA as a show of support.
The members then called to the stage President Susan Edwards, UCIE Director Michelle Streeter-Ferrari, Temple Director Sunita Agarwal and other members of the WSU administration to say a few words to begin WSU Diwali.
Members of ISA reflected fondly on memories of Diwali while welcoming the packed Apollo Room. ISA, with contributions from other student organizations and local businesses, organized the WSU Diwali in its entirety.
“It is so exciting to be here with all of you. As you know, we have approximately 800 international students from India on our campus enrolled and studying at Wright State University, and it’s really an honor for us in [UCIE] to serve you and share your wonderful holidays, customs and traditions,” Streeter-Ferrari said.
Streeter-Ferrari also personally thanked ISA President PremSagarReddy Marreddy for all of the hard work ISA has put into making this celebration a reality.
Agarwal also recognized the effort that the students have contributed.
“It’s Diwali all over the place. This hall is so beautifully decorated, it reminds me of the happy Diwali that is celebrated in India and all over the world,” Agarwal said. “And to all the students, you are like our sons and daughters and we welcome you. You are in America and we are also far away from our motherland India but we are a family.”
