RAPID CITY, S.D. – Diwali, The Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu festivals of the year, celebrated by millions across the world. While the story behind it changes depending on the culture, the message behind it is the same. Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. For students at South Dakota Mines, it’s a way to gather with Rapid City’s International community.
The Diwali celebration at South Dakota Mines is put on by the India Club and is in it’s 35th year. Well over a hundred people were in attendance, enjoying traditional dance, fireworks, and the annual Diwali quiz to test the audience’s knowledge.
“We all are students and we all can’t go back home every time for Diwali, so we bring our culture over here,” said Varun Pushpa, president of the South Dakota Mines India Club, “Do support us. Do enjoy the event. Keep supporting us. It’s really good. There’s a lot of fun, food, fireworks, music. Just chill, man.”
South Dakota Mines holds events like these throughout the year, aimed at bringing together the international community. Diwali is the biggest of these events and is no easy task to put together. Sponsors for the 35th Diwali Celebration included Phase Technologies, Tropical Smoothie Café, Property Meld, Everest Cuisine, and Coca-Cola, but the event wouldn’t be possible by the support and countless hours put in by members of the community.
To show your support of the India Club and to help them get ready for next year’s Diwali, head to their donation page at cara.sdsmt.edu/giving/IndiaClub