Desi Hosts Diwali Dinner, a Celebration of Lights

The annual Diwali Dinner celebrated what was described as “Christmas in an Indian style” with traditional Indian food, Indian music, and northern Indian dance. On October 27, the Cornell Campus Center was filled with people eager to soak in the culture and celebrate light in the darkness.

Diwali is the annual Hindu festival of lights that marks the ultimate victory of good over evil. The word Diwali literally translates to “a row of lamps” in Sanskrit because it is traditional to light candles filled with oil to signify the good over evil in an individual. Even though Diwali is five-day national festival in India, it is enjoyed all over the world regardless of faith. It’s a time to remember those less fortunate and let people come together across all religions and cultures.

“Here at Rollins it’s a night to rejoice, take a break from homework, and enjoy a culture,” said Aditya Mahara (Class of 2012) during a speech after dinner.

Lights were strung all over the Skillman Cafeteria, specifically highlighting the stage where the dances were performed. The first dance was a love song performed by a mother and daughter whose grace kept the crowd in awe. The second dance was performed by a couple and was based on a classic Indian musical. For that dance, the dancers asked for the audience to raise their hands in the air and sing the chorus, “Ohm Shanti Ohm.”

"To me that marks a great success to have brought so many people into the event,” said Alicia Bhambhani (Class of 2011), “this event is a way for people to see and experience something different and a lot of people who do not usually come out to cultural events come to Diwali.  I think it impacts a lot of people and allows them to try something new in a fun and safe way."

Desi, the on campus organization that celebrates South Asian cultures hosted the event.

-Mary Neville (Class of 2013)