School is going to illuminate as it hosts its first-ever Diwali celebration. Diwali, a Hindu holiday, also known as the festival of lights, marks a time to celebrate light and joy for over one billion people around the globe. The holiday honors good over evil and light over darkness.
Reflecting on how to make better choices is an important part of Diwali. Diwali provides the perfect time to reflect with family. Families come together to bond and strengthen connections.
During Diwali, many people set up little oil lamps known as diyas around their homes. Diyas protect against negative energy and symbolize unity. Fireworks always pop during this time and colors linger as the festival of Diwali commences. They emphasize light over darkness and add to the holiday experience.
On Oct. 31 the Asian Student Alliance is hosting a decorative event with food, music and activities such as the drawing of traditional rangoli art, used to show positivity and hospitality. The event will be outside in the Lilly Courtyard weather permitting.

ASA leader Deling Chen, said, “[This is the first time we’ve] had a Diwali celebration before, and we hope this is a good opportunity for people to learn about this holiday. We also hope there’s a big turnout from the [student body].”
The inaugural event will happen during X-period on Thursday with everyone in the Upper School invited to join in on the festivities.
Everyone of the billions who celebrate Diwali celebrate in their own unique and meaningful way. Junior Devyani Nelson said, “Usually, we go to the temple and we watch fireworks, and then my grandma makes her sweets and sends them to us because she lives in Utah. And then we set up lights and diyas all over our house.”

There are many Diwali sweets including sandesh, mithai and laddoo. Tradition says to share sweets with loved ones to show gratitude and positivity. The sweets represent the sweetness of life and how no moment with family should be taken for granted. Diwali focuses on cherishing the little moments in life. The sweets that will be at the event will be gulab jamun and rasgulla.

The holiday creates a time to connect with heritage and other generations. Junior Dia Chaney said, “We usually go to my grandma’s house and do a gift exchange, pray and eat food. My grandma decorates with lights and candles.”
Regardless of how people celebrate Diwali, they always celebrate with their families. Nelson said, “I feel like it’s just a time for me to be with my family and … connect with my Hindu side. It’s a nice time to get away from school and everything.”
Similarly, for Chaney, her celebration concentrates on her loved ones: “Diwali means spending time with my family.”
Diwali is a five day holiday with the main celebrations taking place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1 this year.