Cape Breton University will host the Indian Festival of Lights: Diwali Night on Wednesday, November 7, at the CBU campus.
Diwali, or Dipawali, is India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year and will be celebrated with an evening of student-led cultural performances, dancing, music, traditional foods and a fireworks show. The event will kick off at 6:00 p.m. at the Canada Games Complex.
The festival gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. Over the centuries, Diwali has become a national festival that is enjoyed by most Indians regardless of faith. It is a five day festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness and hope over despair.
“This is the first time the university has hosted an event of this scale to celebrate Diwali. It’s a great way to make our 1200 students from India feel welcomed and allow them to share their culture with members of the local community as we celebrate together,” says Eleanor Anderson, Director of Enrolment Services.
Diwali Night is a free event, open to students, staff, faculty and community members of all ages.
For more information, contact Chris_Tournidis@cbu.ca