Shakti hosts annual Diwali dinner
Photo from Diwali dinner courtesy of Syed Zahoor Raza
With Diwali less than a week away, the Interfaith Center near campus hosted a dinner last Saturday, Nov. 4, from 6-9 p.m. to celebrate the festival of lights. The Interfaith Center is conveniently located close to campus, just a short walk down Franklin Street from the Lauderdale Health Center.
The Interfaith Center is a spiritual home for many Geneseo students from multiple different faiths. Their mission is to foster connections between students and the community and to be an available space for events hosted by students. Their website provides more information on their mission and how to get in contact with them.
The dinner was open to students, faculty, and also the general public to share the joy of Deepavali. Many dinners that are hosted by the Interfaith Center are open to all who would like to attend. For a small price of $5, $6, and $7 respectively, it had all the makings of a convivial event.
Elucidating the profound significance and traditions of Diwali to the attendees, PowerPoint slides were presented that shed light on how this occasion symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It was very heartening to see how all those who turned up were impeccably attired for the event and seemed to be genuinely interested in learning about this holy festival.
In addition to being an informative session, the event was also a gastronomic delight. All of the flavorful South Asian cuisines—from the delicious chicken biryani to the creamy palak paneer to the piping hot crispy samosas—were plate-licking good.
There was even more than delicious food and well-dressed attendees—there was a Bhangra as well to top it off! For those who are unfamiliar with what Bhangra is, it is a Punjabi Indian/Pakistani folk dance. Performed with infectious energy and enthusiasm, it captivated all the guests in the Interfaith Center. Here at Geneseo, we have a Bhangra club full of students who practice together and perform at various events throughout the academic year. The club meets weekly to practice and enjoy the traditions of Bhangra.
In the grand scheme of things, this wasn't just a Diwali dinner or soiree; events like these at the campus carry much broader significance. Students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds participating together in such events not only demonstrates the university's commitment to its inclusivity and diversity initiatives, but also fosters a much-needed sense of community on the campus.
The Alliance for Community Enrichment consistently has events for students that foster engagement and enrichment. These events are fun, close by, cheap (or even free), and they are a great way to meet new people and broaden your own experiences.
So, to all those observing, I'd like to wish you all a happy Diwali in advance and hope that your Diwali is filled with joy, warmth, and blessings. Also, kudos to the Student Association, Alliance for Community Enrichment (ACE), and Shakti for putting on a well-organized event!