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WesternU celebrates Diwali

by Rodney Tanaka

November 18, 2024

Read 3 mins

Four people dancing outdoors, each in traditional attire. Decor includes balloons and a clock in the background.
On November 7, 2024, the offices of HEAR, OISS, Student Affairs, and the SGA held the annual Diwali Celebration on the Pomona campus. Festivities included Henna hand paintings, Rangoli making, traditional Indian cuisine, and singing & dancing by various guests, students, and faculty. (Steven Webber, WesternU)

Story by Deepak Kumar, PhD

More than 300 students, faculty, and staff gathered at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California to celebrate Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, on Nov. 7, 2024. Sponsored by the Office for International Student Services (OISS), the Office of Humanism, Equity, and Anti-Racism (HEAR), the Student Government Association (SGA), and the Office of the Provost, the event fostered cultural appreciation and strengthened our campus community.

A group of people, some in traditional attire, gather around a woman lighting a ceremonial lamp at an event.
The celebration began with a traditional Diya lighting ceremony led by WesternU Provost Dr. Paula M. Crone and other WesternU leaders. (Steven Webber, WesternU)

The celebration began with a traditional Diya lighting ceremony led by WesternU Provost Dr. Paula M. Crone, along with College of Pharmacy Dean Dr. Sunil Prabhu, Director of OISS Katherine Yang, Director of University Student Affairs Jessica Beckman, and Vice President for Humanism, Equity, and Anti-Racism Dr. Suresh Appavoo, symbolizing hope and unity. Guests enjoyed dance performances by students from various colleges, including Isha, Manisha, Aparna, and Manjot from the College of Pharmacy, and Urja and Cecilia from COMP, along with a singing performance by Dr. Kabir Lutfy from the College of Pharmacy. The main attraction, the Garba Night Dance, brought everyone together in traditional attire, celebrating with joyful, rhythmic dancing.

Henna painting was one of the most popular activities, with over 100 attendees receiving intricate designs created by volunteers. A colorful Rangoli display also captivated many, especially families and children, adding a beautiful, cultural focal point to the evening.

Guests enjoyed an array of traditional Indian snacks and sweets, including vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options, providing a delicious culinary experience. The event successfully united students, faculty, and staff, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity across campus.

Two people seated on stage with microphones at a cultural event, featuring colorful balloons and a backdrop. One person plays the tabla while the other speaks.
Dr. Kabir Lutfy performs at the WesternU Diwali celebration. (Steven Webber, WesternU)

This celebration wouldn’t have been possible without our volunteers and performers’ hard work and dedication. Special thanks to Jose Cuévas from the HEAR office, Autumn Washington and Torria Thomas from the Special Events Office for their support, and Chique Magsino for assessing risks to ensure a smooth and safe event. Special thanks to David Valadez and his colleagues from space management for providing essential support for Diwali. Thanks to media and communication team specially Steven Webber for capturing the celebrations.

Diwali is a festival of spreading light, joy, and kindness, and this year our volunteers extended that spirit by organizing donations for the Student Care Cabinet, which supports students in need through the Office of University Student Affairs. We are deeply grateful to all our generous donors for contributing essential items, including food, toiletries, and personal care products, to help students in need.

The Diwali celebration at Western University of Health Sciences was a remarkable success, showcasing our University’s commitment to inclusivity and community. We look forward to future events that bring our campus together in celebration and support.

 

People engage in a colorful art activity on the ground during an outdoor event, surrounded by candles and balloons.

A group of people gather outdoors at night under a string of colorful balloons, surrounded by trees and lights.

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