On Saturday, 6 November, members of the Darden community came together to celebrate Diwali, a festival marking the triumph of good over evil. Diwali is celebrated globally and is popularly known as the festival of lights. In Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism, this festival historically celebrates Rama’s defeat of the evil spirit Ravana and his triumphant return to his kingdom in Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. It represents light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance.
Members of the Darden Community honored this culturally significant event through Rangoli (art form with powdered colors), electric lights and colorful paper lanterns. Tom Steenburgh, Darden’s Senior Associate Dean, inaugurated the event with a speech on the importance of Diwali. Thereafter, participants enjoyed dancing and singing performances and a festive dinner set to Bollywood music.
The Darden South Asia Society (DSAS) hosted the celebration, with help from Darden’s Office of Student Affairs and Center for Global Initiatives. For more fun pictures of the event, follow DSAS on Instagram @darden_southasiasociety.
