Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most popular Hindu festival in India and is celebrated in all parts of the world. It has deep religious significance in India. It signifies the victory of a good over evil and symbolizes hope, morality and courage. Other religions, Jainism and Sikhism, also celebrate the festival. Diwali is celebrated in many parts of the United States of America and has also been celebrated in the White House by lighting a lamp. The objective of Hindu YUVA is to create opportunities for college communities, both students and faculty members, to understand and practice the Hindu culture and value system. The purpose of the event is to promote diversity and Indian culture at Iowa State University by giving an opportunity to the non-Indian students on campus to celebrate Diwali exactly how it is celebrated in India. The intention is to inform the community regarding the significance and rationale behind the various aspects of Diwali. This event also intends to give Indian students a chance to celebrate Diwali, in a traditional way, together along with their friends at Iowa State University.
Hindu YUVA celebrates this Festival here at Iowa State University for two days. In Diwali, lighting a Diya (lamp) is an important tradition, which represents victory of light over darkness. The word Diwali literally translates to “a row of lamps”. On the First day, we decorate Memorial Union Four Seasons Fountain with Tea-lights by making it look more beautiful and spread awareness among the students who pass by about the Festival and its significance. The Next Day, is the Main Festival Day. Diwali highlights the immense cultural diversity in India and there are different customs and traditions in different states. On Diwali, beautiful lanterns are lit in each house to welcome guests and positive energy. With this event, Hindu YUVA tries to give insight into everyone’s understanding of the festival and spread awareness and significance of this festival among ISU Community. Below are the links which will showcase this event organized by Hindu YUVA in the past years at Iowa State University.