This post was written by Hatchet Reporter Ariel Kersky.
During Diwali, finding lit candles in every corner of the home is no fire hazard. It’s a ritual Indian families observe to ensure a good year.
“There are candles in bathrooms, closets, and storage spaces,” said Ritika Mathur, the community outreach director for the Indian Student Association. “The more your house is lit, the more prosperous your year will be.”
The GW Indian Student Association welcomed in the light at an interfaith celebration of Diwali, incorporating aspects of Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
Other Diwali activities include wearing new clothing, exchanging gifts and sweets, and observing the celebration of light.
Diwali doubled as dinner theater for attendants of GWISA’s event. Indian dishes like channa masala, saag paneer, paneer makhani, and naan from Sangam Restaurant were available, while Indian music and dance groups like Rangeela, GW Chamak, D.C. Bhangra Crew and GW Bhangra, Diptanu Das, and GW graduate students performed.
Between performances, representatives from different Indian faiths spoke about how Diwali is celebrated in their religion.