Small candles could be found at every table during the festival of lights on Nov. 7 in the Student Center Ballroom.
Diwali or “Indian Christmas” as it is often called in comparison to the western holiday, is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. People decorate their homes with small lights, and family and friends often exchange gifts.
The Indian Student Association, in collaboration with the Indian Cultural Association of East Alabama, completed another successful Diwali, according to Indian Student Association President Amey Phatale.
“It went really, really smoothly,” Phatale said. “We always have a lot of help, and people really enjoyed it.”
Diwali began with a welcome address, followed shortly by a brief speech from Auburn University Provost Timothy Boosinger. More than 500 guests from the campus and community attended.
“We started preparations in June,” said Diwali Elect President Viraja Khollam. “All of the table cloths were custom made and specially designed.”
This year’s Diwali theme was West India. Musical selections and dance performances were a combination of styles from all over India but done mostly in accordance to the theme.
“I think people really enjoyed the Rajasthani and Bollywood performances,” Phatale said.
The Diwali event included performances by Auburn Indian Music Ensemble, Cultural Music Society, Albeli Kalbelias, Bollywood Fusion, Little Heroes, Dazzling Dancers, Noisy Neighbors, Desi Fusion, Sunanda Group, Auburn Diamonds, a solo performance and the Panchanama.
“We practiced for more than a month, and none of us knew each other before this,” said performer Shankharupa Chaudhuri. “Now we have all created a really strong bond.”
Mansi Patel performed a folk dance at the beginning of the program and a Rajasthani folk-kalbelia dance at the end with her group.
“All of us really love dancing,” Patel said. “We wanted to stick with the theme, and I once lived in Marsan so I wanted to give it that touch.”
Performers ranged in age from 4-40, and came from a variety of different backgrounds.
“I hope people embrace each other into each other’s culture,” Phatale said. “We are here experiencing western culture, so it is our duty to show the Auburn people here our culture.”
Khollam said she enjoys seeing all the different garments worn by guests.
“There are many Americans here dressed in Indian clothes, and they look very pretty,” Khollam said. “This event isn’t just about Indian culture, it’s important in creating a fusion of cultures.”
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