As the sun sets earlier, Indian students at USC embrace the fall season by brightening up their surroundings with diyas (lamps) and fireworks to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. This festival signifies the triumph of light over darkness and has roots in various Hindu mythologies, most commonly associated with the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after a 14-year exile.
The term Diwali originates from the Sanskrit words Diya/Deepam (Di) meaning “lamp” and Avali, meaning “row,” which together translates to a “row of lamps. Though primarily a Hindu celebration, Diwali is also cherished by Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs globally. As the most popular Indian holiday, Diwali brings people together to light lamps, set off fireworks, share sweets and enjoy quality time with loved ones. For international students at USC, being thousands of miles from home can bring a feeling of homesickness, especially during the festive season. Here’s a glimpse into how Diwali is celebrated USC-style.
The Association of Indian Students (AIS), USC’s official hub for Indian students, organizes several cultural events throughout the year, with Diwali being a signature celebration. “Given that USC has a large Indian population, our organization is 1,000 members strong, and we aim to provide a home away from home for Indian students at USC,” said Shantanu Godbole, Vice President of AIS. Together with the Hindu Student Organization, AIS will host its Diwali event on November 3.
At USC, Diwali celebrations go beyond convention as students combine traditional practices with fun, non-traditional elements, making it uniquely vibrant. “The unique part about our Diwali is that we start with a small customary Pooja (ritual), followed by performances, which isn’t very typical back home,” said Pranav Gangurde, President of AIS.
USC’s Diwali showcases music, dance and live painting performances by Trojan troupes, including USCADAA (USC’s premier Indian semi-classical dance team); Asli Baat (USC’s award-winning fusion acapella team); Jashn (USC’s Bolly-hip-hop dance team) and many others.
While traditional Diwali customs are centuries old, USC’s Diwali traditions are relatively young yet remain cherished highlights of the celebration. Each year, AIS Diwali performances end with a dance routine by board members. “We’ve been practicing hard for our performance, and we have a great set of songs—the energy is going to be high,” said Godbole. “We’re also excited to welcome the band Resonance, flying in for Diwali. Formed at USC in 2015, Resonance has performed at our Diwali celebrations ever since.”
Like every Indian festival, food plays an important role in Diwali. USC’s Diwali celebration doesn’t shy away from this, offering a grand Indian feast to all attendees. “Diwali is a huge event for us in India, getting a chance to celebrate it in a small way here with our friends and Indian food is the best part,” said Gangurde.
For more information about AIS Diwali and passes, visit the Association of Indian Students’ Instagram page.
Here is the lineup of performers for this year’s Diwali:
Resonance
Team Svara