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The annual celebration of Diwali falls on Sunday, Nov. 12, this year. The festival commemorates a story in Hindu mythology where Lord Rama, his wife, Sita, and his brother, Lakshmana, returned to their homeland of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The trio had just defeated the demon king Ravana, and villagers lit a path for them back to the city with diyas — small, clay oil lamps.

Many also worship Krishna, the god of love, compassion, and protection, as well as Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, fortune, beauty and fertility during Diwali. Syracuse University annually hosts Diwali celebrations, including these events this year:

Diwali Lights up the Orange Grove
Students from the class Art and Architecture of India are inviting other students, faculty and staff from campus to join them in a Diwali Celebration at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9, at the Orange Grove. This celebration of light will be paired with Rangoli designs from the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS). Rangoli is traditionally a decoration for the entrances of homes, made of colored rice or flour, along with several other adornments.
Where: The Orange Grove
When: Nov. 9 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Diwali Pooja
The Hindu Students Association is hosting a Diwali event at Hendricks Chapel on Tuesday, Nov. 7, at 6 p.m. Pooja is the act of worship in Hinduism, while Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights. During Diwali Pooja, there is typically an altar and offerings, also known as prasad, given to Lakshmi.
Where: Hendricks Chapel
When: Nov. 7 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

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Shilpanatanam: An Evening of Indian Classical Dance
On Tuesday, Nov. 7, the Everson Museum of Art will host “Shilpanatanam: An Evening of Indian Classical Dance.” This event is co-hosted by Falk College and the College of Arts and Sciences with performances from Maya Kulkarni, Mesma Belsare and Kaustavi Sarkar.

Shilpanatanam means “dancing work of art,” which relates to the art in historic Hindu temples. The performers will dance in the styles of Odissi and Bharatanatyam.
Where: Everson Museum of Art
When: Nov. 7 from 6 to 8 p.m.

King + King Architecture Library Diwali Book Display
Slocum Hall will feature a Diwali book display on Nov. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The books featured are about light and architecture to honor the holiday. This event is at the King + King Architecture Library.
Where: 1st floor of Slocum Hall
When: Nov. 9 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Kusumavali’ 23 Indian Dance Recital by Anjani Dance Academy
On Nov. 18, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., the Anjani Dance Academy, the “premier Indian dance academy” of central New York, will perform in the Palace Theater. The recital is titled “Kusumavali ‘23” and will feature dances distinct to Indian mythology and festivals.

Where: The Palace Theater
When: Nov. 18 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Published on November 5, 2023 at 9:56 pm