Hindu Holidays

Diwali

Diwali is a festival that carries a variety of significance for many Hindus. Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs celebrate around this time as well, and each tradition comes to the celebration with their own unique significances. For Hindus, it is typically observed over 5 days and widely associated with the Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of abundance and prosperity, who is worshipped on the third day. Some turn to traditional narratives, specifically one in which the deity Rama is welcomed back to his kingdom by rows of oil lamps after having deafeated the king Ravana. However one choses to associate with the festival, Diwali marks a time for families and friends to come together and feel a sense of renewal and joy. It is a time to lean on community to find support in reflecting on our commitments to ourselves and to one another guided by the light of learning.

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Diwali 2024

Hindu Chaplaincy and HSA: Diwali Pumpkin Carving
Tuesday, October 29, 6:30 p.m., Cannon Chapel Underpass

Please join Emory OSRL and the HSA in preparing for Diwali this Halloween season with festive pumpkin carving. This year, Diwali falls on Halloween, and we're bringing together both traditions in a unique way. Come carve your own Diwali-inspired Jack-o-Lanterns, enjoy treats, and join in the fun of these two celebrations. For questions, please contact Rajeev.Persaud@emory.edu.

Emory University Chaplaincy and Asian Student Center: Diwali Luncheon Thursday October 31, 12:00-2:00 pm, Asian Student Center, Cox Hall The Emory University Chaplaincy and Asian Student Center are teaming up for a delicious Diwali celebration commemorating the festival of lights. Drop in at the Asian Student Center in Cox Hall for a free festive lunch and celebrate Diwali with us. RSVP here. For more information, please contact justin.hua@emory.edu or Rajeev.Persaud@emory.edu.

OSRL and HSA: Lakshmi Puja
Friday, November 1, 5:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel

Join OSRL and HSA for our Lakshmi Puja. Learn more about HSA here. For more information, contact Hindu Chaplain Rajeev Persaud at rajeev.persaud@emory.edu.

ICA Diwali: Ticket Sales
Saturday, November 9, 7:00-11:00 pm, Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Every year, we take great pride in hosting Diwali, the festival of lights in India, which for several years has been Emory’s largest off-campus event. Diwali today serves to demonstrate India’s regional, religious, and cultural diversity.

This year's event will be held on Saturday, November 9, at the Atlanta Marriot Marquis from 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM ET. We are expecting the celebration to be sold out at our capacity of 800 guests. Tickets are only $20 for a full night of festivities (including catered dinner) -- These can be purchased during ticketing slots (locations to be announced on Emory ICA's Instagram: "emory_ica" in the upcoming weeks).

Ticketing Dates:

Monday, October 28, 3:30-5:30 PM
Tuesday, October 29, 6-8 PM
Wednesday, October 30, 9:30-11:30 AM
Friday, November 1st (TBD)

All are welcome. Come dressed in your favorite Desi attire. Learn more about getting a ticket here.