The DMU Hindu Society collaborated with BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Leicester to put on a spectacular event in celebration of Diwali.
On Monday 7 November the De Montfort University (DMU) Hindu Society collaborated with BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Leicester to put on a spectacular event in celebration of Diwali.
Being one of the most important occasions in the Hindu calendar, the society were keen to celebrate on a grand scale, inviting students from various backgrounds at DMU to join the festivities and educate them on the reason as to why Diwali is celebrated on such a large scale.
A display, known as an ‘Annakut’ (translating to ‘a mountain of food’) was on display indicating a symbol of gratitude for wealth, health and a joyous year as students embark on a new term.
Student Inclusion Coordinator, Heena Chaperon said: “The Annakat is unlike anything I have seen before and so spectacular to witness. The food that was served was delicious and it was great to speak to everyone involved putting the event together.”
Alongside the display, the event saw presentations from the Swamis of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, particularly His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, delving into the history of Diwali.
The story of Lord Ram on his journey to return to Ayodhya and his defeat of Ravana encouraged the idea that truth, integrity and simplicity will always triumph evil. The Hindu Society said: “They encouraged students to imbibe these values in their lives to help them with their academic, personal and professional endeavours.”
As the celebrations drew to a close, a traditional and authentic Indian meal was offered to the events attendees.
Inclusion Coordinator Heena Chaperon said: “It was amazing to see such a vibrant Diwali celebration in the students' union and we are so happy we were able to support the Hindu Society in hosting such an event. It is events such as these that are so important to reflect and represent who we are at DMU.
It is really motivating when student groups put in effort to create a successful event for all students. We look forward to supporting the Hindu Society in events such as these and hope to see it get more and more successful.”
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