Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals across India and the world. For the student population at Warwick University, Diwali holds special cultural significance as it not only brings together students from diverse backgrounds but also creates opportunities to share traditions, values, and experiences, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect on campus.

 

 

 

Diwali celebrations vary significantly across India, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity. Though the central theme of light triumphing over darkness is common, each region has its own unique customs and ways of celebrating the festival.

 

 

North India: In the north, Diwali is celebrated with grandeur, marked by spectacular fireworks, lighting of diyas (oil lamps), and vibrant family gatherings. People clean and decorate their homes with rangoli (intricate patterns made with coloured powders) and exchange gifts and sweets. Cities like Delhi and Jaipur are known for their large, colourful Diwali markets and dazzling light displays.

 

South India: In the south, Diwali (known as Deepavali) is celebrated slightly differently. The day often begins early with families taking oil baths, wearing new clothes, and offering prayers. Instead of lighting diyas in the evening, many homes are illuminated in the early morning, and celebrations are more centred around family rituals, traditional feasts, and firecrackers.

 

West India: States like Maharashtra and Gujarat focus on family worship and prayers to welcome wealth and prosperity. Homes are cleaned, and there is a tradition of creating colourful rangoli designs at the entrances to invite good fortune.

 

British-Asian Diwali: For many British-Asian families, Diwali remains an important tradition, symbolising cultural identity and connection to their heritage. Celebrations in the UK often include large community events, lighting up homes, and exchanging gifts. In areas like Leicester, which has one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India, the streets come alive with lights, music, and food stalls, showcasing a fusion of British and South Asian culture.

 

At Warwick University and Warwick Students Union, Diwali represents much more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and unity. It brings students from different parts of India, and even the wider global South Asian diaspora, together to share their unique traditions. Through events such as cultural performances, creative workshops, and community feasts, Warwick’s Diwali celebration becomes a platform for students to not only honour their heritage but also to build cross-cultural connections.

 

For Warwick’s diverse student body, Diwali is an opportunity to embrace and celebrate each other’s cultures, bringing light, joy, and unity to the entire campus.

Don’t forgot to visit our campaigns event page to learn more about how Warwick Students Union is celebrating Diwali as part One World Warwick.