Diwali, also known as the “the Festival of Lights,” the most important holiday of the year in India, was celebrated at the V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University with an exciting event.

In Indian culture, Diwali is considered the equivalent of the European New Year. During the celebrations, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi, is honored, and the traditional puja ceremony is held. This year, students from the International Medical Faculty at the Vernadsky CFU Medical Institute named after S.I. Georgievsky, who are mostly hailing from India, played an active role in organising the festivities.

“For me Diwali is the biggest holiday. When I was at home, we were always very happy during these days. We made decorations and garlands, cooked sweets, and visited relatives. Surely, I miss my homeland. We wanted to hold such a celebration so that all Indian students would feel at home and be happy again, and I believe we’ve achieved that,” shared Saitam Goial, Chairman of the Student Council at the International Medical Faculty.

Through an interactive performance the audience learned about 20 states of India, their unique cultures and traditional performances. At the food court, guests tasted Indian dishes such as Gulab Jamun, samosas, and Jalebi. The festival also featured several themed photo zones and a ‘Memory Tree’ where participants left their handprints as a symbol of unity and shared memories.

“Probably every national holiday is interesting in its own way. This is my first time at such an event with our Indian students. I know that Diwali is one of the biggest holidays in India. It’s beautiful, interesting, and unique. For us, all cultures are equally important. It is essential to immerse ourselves in the culture of other peoples. It’s natural for the Russians, because we value every culture, every language, and every tradition that aligns with the traditional values of each nation. I wish all those celebrating a happy Diwali! May these celebrations warm their hearts and bring them joy,” said Vladimir Kurianov, Vernadsky CFU Acting Rector.

The festival of lights and goodness was attended by over 500 students and guests, who were given the chance to explore the diverse cultures of Vernadsky CFU students.

 This event was held as part of the Priority-2030 Strategic Academic Leadership Programme.