From India to the World: How Students Celebrate Diwali Across Continents

Nothing quite lights up the November gloom like Diwali! The festival of lights is undoubtedly a hallmark of Hindu festivities. It is celebrated across different Asian communities, like Sikhism and Jainism, in different forms. Diwali's luminous aura isn't confined to India alone; this vibrant festival has transcended boundaries and resonated with people from all corners of the globe, including international students studying at prestigious universities. This article takes you on a whirlwind tour of how Diwali is celebrated in other countries and how international students join these celebrations.

Oxford University is all set for Diwali Ball

Diwali celebrations at some of the world's leading universities are truly magnificent, with Oxford University setting an exemplary standard. The University of Oxford hosts a grand Diwali celebration annually to honor the spirit of this festival. The Oxford University Hindu Society is responsible for organizing the event and making it a spectacular affair.

One of the aspects that students eagerly look forward to during Diwali fest is traditional Indian cuisine, and the society doesn't disappoint. They serve a sumptuous three-course Indian meal, along with stalls offering refreshing lassi and delicious panipuri. Oxford Ball attracts attendees not only from Oxford but also from Cambridge, London Universities, and Bristol. Surprisingly, most guests are from non-Indian backgrounds, as everyone relishes immersing themselves in a new culture. The celebration usually concludes with a breathtaking fireworks display.

Witness Diwali Dhamaka at LSE 

The Diwali celebration at the London School of Economics (LSE) surpasses those at other London universities. For years, LSE's Diwali festivities have set a significant model for celebrating this festival in the right spirit. The Indian Society at LSE plays a vital role in ensuring students from diverse backgrounds across the globe treasure and partake in the rich tapestry of Indian culture. This inclusive event welcomes students from various universities, featuring an hour-long Puja dedicated to prayers and Bhajan singing. The celebration culminates with a delectable distribution of Indian snacks and sweets.

Diwali Night at the University of Wisconsin Madison

Diwali Night at the University of Wisconsin Madison is a significant event hosted annually since five years by the Indian Graduate Students’ Association (IGSA), a registered student organization. The night is marked by dazzling performances, including traditional Indian dances, music, and vibrant fashion shows, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian culture.

The event culminates with a dazzling fireworks show and a communal dinner for UW-Madison students, staff, and faculty members.

Cambridge University- Diwali Dinner

The Diwali dinner hosted by the Hindu Cultural Society at Cambridge is a much-anticipated event on the group's annual schedule. This celebration includes heartfelt prayers and a delectable Indian feast at Wesley House. Following the dinner, attendees are treated to a captivating classical dance drama inspired by a facet of Hindu mythology, featuring talented performers from the Cambridge University Indian Classical Arts Society.

Relish Diwali Mela at Boston University

When discussing how Diwali is celebrated in other countries, one cannot overlook the vibrant festivities at Boston University in the United States. The BU Hindu Student Council diligently organizes a Diwali puja annually to bring peace, wealth, and prosperity to their homes. The fest boasts different events on cultural arts and crafts, food, music, and dancing.

These are just a few examples of how international students celebrate Diwali at various universities around the world. These celebrations give students a sense of belonging even when far from home and help them stay connected to their culture and traditions.