“Diwali means full fun with family and friends,” shared Computer Programming student, Krupal Sanjaykumar Patel, who is originally from India. “This Diwali my family is not with me, but I have friends with whom my Diwali will be lightened up. Thanks Niagara College for introducing those friends.”
Although Niagara College’s Diwali event will look a little different this year as festivities go virtual to mark the occasion on November 14, the Indian festival of lights event at NC promises to deliver a celebration for students.
“Originally, we celebrate Diwali on the day that lord Ramchandra, Lakshman and goddess Sita met their family after 14 years of vanvas, [when] the whole village set lights to welcome them,” explained Patel. “Thus, every year we celebrate Diwali in memory of that day and to enjoy with our family.”
Patel explained that the home is traditionally decorated with candles and lights during Diwali. Doors are also left open, as it is believed goddess Lakshmi visits to spread wealth and health, and crackers are fired to welcome the happiness that the festival brings to all life.
“Diwali is a festival of new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness,” shared International recruitment and marketing associate director Howard Slaney.
Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations student, Shivam Maurya, submitted a cooking recipe for butter chicken as part of a contest for this year’s virtual Diwali celebration at NC.
“Dress, Dish and Dance” is the theme of this year’s virtual Diwali celebration at NC and features a contest aligning with the theme. Patel is one of the many NC students who entered the contest between November 2 and November 6, having submitted an entry in the “Dress” category, which encouraged students to submit a photo of their Diwali attire, explain their outfit choice and what Diwali means to them.
For the “Dish” category, students were asked to submit a photo and recipe card of any meal, or part of a meal, or dessert that they enjoy during the Diwali festival. NC Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations student, Shivam Maurya, submitted a cooking recipe for butter chicken. “This is a famous chicken recipe known as butter chicken,” explained Maurya. “This dish represents India at the global level.”
For the third and final category, “Dance,” students were asked to submit a 30-second solo dance routine from home.
Students will have the chance to vote for their favourite submissions on social media until November 11 to determine the grand prize winner. NC staff will pick the winner in each category based on theme, execution and school spirit. There will be one prize for each category and an overall top prize.
Select submissions will be part of NC’s Dress, Dish and Dance – A Virtual Diwali Celebration video that will premiere on NC International’s Facebook page on Saturday, November 14. Niagara College staff and faculty are invited to join the celebration by tuning in to the premiere.
For Niagara College International’s Facebook page, visit: facebook.com/ncinternational/
For more information on Niagara College International events, visit: international.niagaracollege.ca/events/list/
