This past Sunday evening, the first ever large-scale Diwali celebration on our campus occurred.
Diwali, or Thibar as it is known in Nepal, is the Hindu Festival of Lights, which honors the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The five-day celebration culminantes on the third day with the Lakshmi puja when individuals usually decorate their homes with lights and lamps as they honor the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi.
Our Hindu Community, many of whom are from Nepal, worked so hard to make this a special event on our campus. They decorated the Memorial Ballroom with lights, candles, and an altar devoted to Lakshmi. They made delicious food and desserts that were so good that after I enjoyed some, I left, drove home, got my family, and returned to the ballroom so they could enjoy the food too. Although, much to my kids’ chagrin, they had run out of desserts by that point.
With over 100 people in attendance, the energy in the room was electric. Witnessing so many people singing and dancing brought a smile to my face for almost the entire time. The most memorable moments came when a handful of students shared their experiences on campus.
One student expressed their difficulty being so far from home, especially during particular religious and cultural celebrations. However, getting to celebrate Diwali on campus with new friends brought them such gratitude. Another shared that the University of Lynchburg has become his second home and was bursting with thankfulness that he was able to celebrate his culture on campus.
I often say that a delicious meal, with good people and great conversation, is a glimpse of the sacred. On Sunday, as I watched so many in our community eat, sing, dance, laugh, and celebrate together, it was clear this Festival of Lights was truly a bright light for our campus. May light and happiness be yours. Happy Diwali!