This Friday, November 15 at the Northbank Center Ballroom the UM-Flint Indian Student Association will host a Diwali celebration. The party is a free event and takes place from 6-9pm. The celebration features cultural performances, dancing and food. Students from different states will attend to celebrate with unique music and dance with all of the performances culminating in a “grand Bollywood dance.” The floor will then open with Bollywood music.
Diwali is a Hindu Festival of Lights celebrated between mid-October and mid-November. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. The festival originated in India and is mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts hailing back to the 10th century. During the festival, participants illuminate their homes or temples with candles and lanterns. Food and family are a major part of Diwali as it acts as a sort of homecoming and bonding period.
Each of the five days of Diwali holds a special significance. It begins on Day 1 with an annual renewal where homes are cleaned and decorated with lights. The rituals of Day 2 are designed around liberating souls from their suffering through prayer. Day 3 is the height of the festival where respect is paid to family ancestors and parents. Day 4 is a celebration of the bond between a wife and her husband and Day 5 is a celebration of the brother-sister bond.
Join the UM-Flint Indian Student Association on Friday, November 15 to take part in the annual Festival of Lights!
