Indian students celebrate Diwali, Festival of Lights

  Tuesday, October 29, 2013 2:00 AM
  News

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University’s Indian Student Association will host Diwali, the Festival of Lights, at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3, in the Crimson and Gold Ballroom of the Overman Student Center. The event is open to the public and offers an insight into the culture and traditions of India.

In addition to a traditional Indian meal, the celebration will include cultural performances and a fireworks display, weather permitting.

Tickets are $12 and may be purchased in the International Programs and Services Office in 118 Whitesitt Hall, 620-235-4680. For additional information about the event, contact: Amrutha Varsha Tamanam at 620-704-4240 or Sonakshi Soni at 620-704-2326.

Diwali, a festival celebrated between mid-October and mid-November, is recognized as an official holiday not only in India, but in several other Middle Eastern countries, as well. Celebrated for five days on the Hindu calendar, the holiday uses many special symbols, including lighting lamps filled with oil (to signify good over evil) and fireworks (to drive evil spirits away).