By: Chase Merwin
Light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and fellowship over religion.
Such were the common themes of the Diwali Festival of Lights, which has just seen its third year of celebration at Western. Hosted by the International Student Services (ISS), the popular Hindu celebration, held on Friday, Oct. 20, featured singing performances, dazzling dance demonstrations, authentic Indian cuisine and the festival of lights.
Ann Rahmat, director of the ISS, said the intention of the Festival of Lights is to educate those who have not heard of Diwali.
“The program that we have is an opportunity for American students who have not had a chance to engage with other cultures to be aware of what’s going on,” Rahmat said. “To be there and be present with the people who celebrate.”
Diwali is commonly misunderstood as a Hindu holiday. Lead organizer of the event, Sanhith Chinta, said that it is actually meant for those of other faiths as well.
“All religions celebrate the festival,” Chinta said. “In India, even Muslims participate in Diwali. It’s not just about Hinduism.”
Ashma Rayamajhi, a student organizer, said that the way Diwali is celebrated is what truly matters.
The festival was vibrant and energetic. The night included a dinner as well as song and dance performances to immerse event-attendees in the Diwali experience.
The highlight of the celebration was the festival of lights. Square lanterns were released into Western’s south pond as event-goers traced the night sky with sparklers, commemorating the light of Diwali.
The Diwali Festival of Lights demonstrated that fellowship and togetherness trumps religious affiliation. Two people do not have to be both Christians, both Muslims, or both Hindus to get along and celebrate happiness and light.
Every person has different sources of happiness in their life. Diwali is meant to bring them out.
