By Yashna Das

On October 20, the university joined the Indian community to mark the Diwali festival. This festival of lights, which lasts for about 5 days annually, is a major religious celebration for Hindus, but also has been observed by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists for centuries.

The origin story of Diwali varies depending on the region. In Southern India, Diwali celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna's destruction of the demon Narakasura. In Northern India, Diwali honors the triumphant return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshama from a 14-year-long exile in the forest. Despite all these stories, there is one common theme - the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. The word itself is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘deepavali’, which means “row of lights"

During this auspicious time, families clean their homes, decorate their houses with diyas (clay oil lamps) and colorful rangoli designs made from colored powder or flower petals, inviting the Goddess Lakshmi to bless homes with prosperity. Festive sweets are also made, such as laddus (round-shaped sweets), barfi, jalebi, and many more.

While days are filled with prayers and feasts, nights are illuminated with lights and fireworks, bringing family, friends, and neighbors together. In many parts of India, Diwali marks the beginning of the New Year in the Hindu lunar calendar and symbolizes renewal and new beginnings. Moreover, this festival has its roots also extending to when the rice-crop harvest ended, giving way to the manuring of the next crop.

The Diwali festival has great emotional, cultural, and spiritual significance for the Hindus. It serves as a reminder of common beliefs, customs, and identity in addition to being a holiday.

At USIU-Africa, this spirit of diversity is clearly reflected. The university’s Indian community is well represented and vibrant. They continue to play an active role in sharing their culture and traditions with the wider student body. This highlights USIU-Africa’s commitment to inclusivity and multicultural spirit but also creates a space for cultural exchange and understanding.