It is always thrilling to study in a foreign country, but sometimes, you may become homesick because of this, especially during festive times. Westcliff University knows this and, therefore, celebrates Indian festivals on campus to make its Indian students feel at home. These celebrations enable students to embrace and share their culture.
Holi at Westcliff: A Fun Day of Colors
This is a festival when people throw colors at each other, and it is celebrated with much fun at Westcliff University. Every year, around 200 students come together for the occasion, throwing colors, dancing to Indian music, and eating gujiya and thandai, among other mouth-watering snacks. The Indian Student Association (ISA) puts all efforts into ensuring that everything feels just like it does back home. For friendship, the day brings together students from around the world, making it one of the most interesting activities at the institution.
Diwali Delights: Lights and Joy on Campus
Diwali, being an important celebration at Westcliff University, means that many lamps will be lit on campus. The grounds have over 500 small lamps known as diyas and also rangolis, which are colorful designs on the floor. During the event, there is prayer, then dances are performed, followed by feasting, where all popular dishes from India will be served, among other things. Last Diwali was attended by more than 300 pupils making it into a very huge thing. This party feels like home for all Indians, and they take it as an opportunity to introduce Diwali to their friends.
Navratri Nights: Dancing Together at Westcliff
People dance throughout the Navratri festival, which lasts for nine nights. At Westcliff University, Garba and Dandiya dance are the best part of this celebration. In 2023 alone, more than 150 learners took part in these dance nights dressed in traditional Indian clothes while dancing energetically to music beats released that very same year by local DJs across Westcliff University. The Indian Student Association wants to make sure that everyone gets involved, so they invite students from all backgrounds and countries of origin to take part in Navratri nights. By doing this, these dance nights help keep the Indian students connected to their roots as well as sharing the excitement of Navratri with others.
International Food & Culture Fair: Tasting Indian Flavors
The International Food & Culture Fair is the occasion when students can share their traditional cuisines with others. These include biryani, samosas, and gulab jamun, among others, which are quite popular dishes from India. To note, during 2023, more than thirty nations were represented at this event, including a significant number of participants from India taking part in it too. Also, there are Indian music and dance performances during the festival, making it an entire cultural experience. This program gives all Indians on campus a chance to show off their culture.
Key Points:
- Some popular Indian dishes are biryani and samosa.
- Students add fun by performing traditional dances.
- It is an international fair that covers over thirty different countries.
Ganesh Chaturthi: Bringing Indian Traditions to Campus
The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is observed in India by people who worship the God Ganesh. At Westcliff, Indian pupils are deeply devoted to it. Last season, a Ganesha idol was set up on campus by the Indian Student Association, and approximately one hundred students attended daily prayers and aarti (a prayer song). Like in India, this culminated in symbolically immersing the idol. Celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi at college helps Indian students maintain their cultural heritage and convey it to others.
Connecting Through Festivals: The Role of Indian Student Associations
To ensure that these festivals are celebrated properly, there must be an Indian Student Association (ISA) at Westcliff University. The ISA represents more than 200 active participants in all major Indian festivals taking place at college. They coordinate with the university to have everything they need and include students from all walks of life. These initiatives by ISA help students from India feel supported and connected, hence making their time at Westcliff both fun and culturally enriching.
Key Points:
- The ISA has over 200 active members.
- They organize major Indian festivals on campus with the university’s help.
- ISA promotes cultural exchange, making these festivals enjoyable for everyone.
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FAQ’s
What Indian festivals are celebrated at Westcliff University?
Festivals like Holi, Diwali, Navratri, and Ganesh Chaturthi are celebrated at Westcliff University
Does Westcliff help students celebrate these festivals?
Yes, Westcliff University works with the Indian Student Association to organize these celebrations.
Can students from other countries join the celebrations?
Yes, everyone is welcome to join and have fun during these festivals.
Who organizes the Indian festivals at Westcliff?
The Indian Student Association organizes most of the Indian festivals on campus.
Why are these festivals important for Indian students?
Celebrating these festivals helps Indian students feel at home and stay connected to their culture.
