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Tickets for the meal are required and will be sold based on availability until Friday. They are $15 for guests ages 8 and up, and are available in the International Office, 118 Whitesitt Hall or the Overman Student Center (ISA table), or by calling 425-625-9309, or by emailing snagireddypally@gus.pittstate.edu. Children 7 and under may eat for free.
The event will begin with a variety of cultural performances including dance and musical performances in the Crimson and Gold Ballroom of the Overman Student Center. This portion of the event is free.
Immediately following, around 7 p.m., a catered authentic Indian meal by Kansas City area restaurant Aahaa South Indian Cuisine will be served buffet-style in Grubbs Hall.
ISA officers say it’s considered one of the most auspicious festivals of India which “symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”
Many folklores are associated with the ancient festival. For children in India, Diwali is like Christmas. In addition to a week off from school, they are also treated to gifts, new clothes, lavish meals, and fireworks. The festival ranks high among the country's favorite celebrations.
The evening will conclude around 9 p.m. with fireworks in the parking lot to the west of the Weede Building. This event is open to the campus community and the public.
Guests are encouraged to dress in clothing they might wear to a special occasion such as a wedding or church, although it’s not required. Indian students will greet guests at the door by offering them a “bindi,” or small colored dot, on the center of their forehead.
Learn more about being an international student at PSU:
