The aroma of biryani and mango lassi, the shimmer of henna and the sound of Indian music filled the Sikes Lake Center as students gathered to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, at MSU on Nov. 8, 2025.
Hosted by the Midwestern Indian Student Association (MISA), the event featured dance performances, henna artists and traditional Indian food, all aimed at sharing the spirit of Diwali with the MSU community.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals across the Indian subcontinent. Rooted in Hindu tradition but observed by Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists as well, the festival signifies the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
In Hindu mythology, Diwali marks Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya are said to have lit rows of oil lamps to welcome him home, symbolizing the renewal of hope and goodness.
In other parts of India, Diwali honors the goddess Lakshmi, who represents prosperity, wisdom and good fortune. The lights of Diwali are meant to guide her blessings into every home.
The evening began with a presentation explaining the holiday’s origins and rituals, including decorating homes with lamps, creating rangoli art, exchanging gifts and gathering for feasts.
Soon President Stacia Haynie joined the celebration. She cheered for performances by the senator of MISA, president of MISA and some other students.
Between performances, volunteers served plates of fragrant biryani, savory samosas, and cool glasses of mango lassi. For many international students, the evening offered not just a taste of home, but a reminder that their culture is seen, valued, and celebrated.
Business administration sophomore Pujan Gajjar and the vice vresident of MISA, said the purpose of hosting the event was to bring people together and connect them to Indian culture.
“It’s a get-together,” Gajjar said. “We’re trying to connect people with Indian culture, meet new people and build a bond with them. That’s what makes Diwali important for us.”
He explained that according to the Hindu calendar, Diwali also marks the beginning of a new year.
“As per the Hindu calendar, after Diwali, it’s the New Year for us,” he said. “That’s the reason we celebrate it. It’s a festival of seven days.”
When asked about the challenges of organizing such a large event, Gajjar pointed to the behind-the-scenes logistics.
“The most difficult part is management,” he said. “Time management is really the key.”
Attendees said the event was both educational and enjoyable. Vernon College alum Selah Grace learned about the festival from her friend Abhigna, the MISA Senator.
“I didn’t really know what Diwali was before today,” Grace said. “The presentation and performances helped me understand it better. It’s amazing how people celebrate light and love with such excitement.”
Grace said she felt welcomed by the MSU Indian community and encouraged others to explore cultures different from their own.
“Don’t be afraid to try new things that you don’t know,” she said. “Different doesn’t mean bad. It’s something to learn from.”
As the event came to a close, students shared food, laughter and photos under the glow of warm lights. For many, it was more than a celebration. It was a reminder that culture, even far from home, can still feel like family.
