Diwali is a major Hindu holiday known as the “Festival of Lights” and it has been celebrated not only by Hindus, but by Jains and Sikhs as well all across India. It is a celebration in which small clay lamps, or diyas, are lit by people in order to represent the inner light that each individual possesses in order to outshine the darkness that individuals may experience. Diwali is also traditionally celebrated by exchanging sweets and presents which serve as good omens for luck and prosperity in the coming year.

At Washington University, Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated and largest student-run productions on campus. The festival is celebrated with a major show in Edison Theater, with tickets selling out every year. Diwali is run by Ashoka, the South Asian Student Association, and it has been a strongly rooted tradition at WashU for the past 25 years. The Diwali show not only draws in a diverse audience, but also attracts participants of many different backgrounds, making the show an integrated experience of cultures. While Diwali itself is a Hindu holiday, at WashU it is celebrated as a fusion of South Asian cultures. The show typically begins a welcoming with diya lights followed by an assortment of dances, singing, a fashion show, individual acts, and a skit that weaves the acts together, tying them all to the major themes of Diwali. This year, the show will take place in Edison Theatre on November 5 and 6.

Additionally, Ashoka donates the show’s and the fundraising’s proceeds to a charity every year.

Please note that for all in-person events, attendees must adhere to Washington University’s public health requirements, including the latest events and meetings protocol. Guests will be required to show a successful self-screening result and wear a mask at all times.