On Saturday, Nov. 7 the Indian Student Association will host its annual Diwali festival. Diwali is a festival of lights in India celebrating the victory of righteousness.
“The way you guys have Christmas here we have Diwali,” said Elect president of Diwali Viraja Khollam. “It celebrates the triumph of good over evil.”
Diwali has been a tradition at Auburn University for the past seven or eight years. It will be held in the Student Center ballroom B and begins at 4:30 p.m.
“Those who have tickets for food can start getting food around 6 o’clock,” Khollam said.
The event is free to students and the public and usually attracts a large crowd of around 500 people.
Guests can also experience traditional Indian dance and music performances from students and community members. Auburn Indian Music Ensemble will perform pieces in the traditional north Indian style.
“Diwali is an event where students and the community get to showcase their talent in different forms,” Khollam said.
The centerpiece in the middle of the stage was hand painted by an artist in India and features a peacock- the national bird of India.
“It represents prosperity and,” Khollam said. “We are trying to revive and show respect to the dying tribal art.”
Timothy Boosinger will be the guest speaker for the night, and will give a speech around 5 p.m. The Indian Student Association welcomes everyone to attend Diwali.
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