Photo Credits: Courtesy of AWAZ
By Radhika Gupta ’26
Staff Writer
The South Asian community at Mount Holyoke College illuminated Chapin Auditorium with the vibrant celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on Saturday, Nov. 23. Organized by AWAZ, the South Asian Association on campus, and co-sponsored by the Weissman Center for Leadership and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the event brought together students, faculty and visitors for an unforgettable evening of cultural immersion.
Diwali, celebrated across South Asia, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Families and friends gather during this festival to light oil lamps known as diyas, share delicious food and revel in the joy of togetherness. At the College, the AWAZ Diwali celebration is a cherished tradition, eagerly anticipated every fall as the highlight of the South Asian cultural calendar.
Months of preparation paid off as Chapin Auditorium came alive with colorful decor, music and performances. AWAZ took to their social media platforms almost a month in advance to build excitement, ensuring an enthusiastic turnout from both Mount Holyoke and neighboring colleges. The auditorium buzzed with energy as students adorned in dazzling traditional South Asian attire filled every corner, eager to partake in the festivities.
The evening featured a series of spectacular dance performances by groups from Mount Holyoke and the rest of the Five College Consortium. Performers included the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Mass Mirchi and Hampshire College’s Bollywood dance group, as well as the College’s own fusion dance troupe, MHC Jhumka, and the high-energy Bhangra team, MHC Raunak Bhangra. These electrifying performances left the audience cheering and clapping along to rhythmic beats and intricate choreography, with the dance floor becoming a vibrant celebration of South Asian artistry.
Beyond the stage, the event offered a range of engaging activities, including diya painting, a jhumka earring table and a photobooth that captured the joy of the evening. Attendees indulged in a feast of Indian delicacies, including biryani and samosa chaat, and drinks, such as mango lassi, savoring every bite of the flavorful spread that highlighted the richness of South Asian cuisine.
AWAZ’s executive board left no stone unturned in ensuring a refreshing and festive experience. The night culminated in a DJ session by DJ Reverb, transforming the auditorium into a pulsating dance floor that kept spirits high until the very end.
As the vibrant evening concluded, attendees left with smiles, memories and the joy of having shared in a tradition that not only celebrates South Asian culture but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Quill Nishi-Leonard ’27 contributed fact-checking.