Tufts Blogs

As a sophomore at Tufts, one of the things I’ve grown to love most about our community is how it embraces every culture with open arms. Whether it’s learning a new dance at a South Asian mixer or trying food from a culture you’ve never experienced before, there’s always something happening that brings us closer together. And nothing captures this spirit better than Diwali—Tufts’ annual celebration of the Indian festival of lights.

Organized by groups like the Tufts Association of South Asians (TASA) and the Hindu Students Council, it’s more than just an event; it’s a vibe, a tradition, and for so many of us, a highlight of the fall semester. The performances? Next level. Imagine a stage lit up with graceful Indian classical dances, high-energy Bollywood routines, and fusion acts that blend the best of East and West. Groups like the Tufts Bhangra and Garba teams absolutely kill it every year, but what’s even cooler is that the stage is open to anyone. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just want to join for fun, it’s all about celebrating together.

And the food—oh my god, the food. I’m talking about crispy samosas, fragrant biryani, spicy chole, and soft naan. Don’t even get me started on the desserts—jalebis and laddoos are actual happiness in edible form. It’s more than just delicious; it’s a way to connect with Indian culture through your taste buds. But what makes Diwali Night truly special is the vibe. It’s about community, plain and simple. For South Asian students, it’s a comforting reminder of home, a chance to celebrate traditions that might feel far away while being surrounded by friends who just get it. For others, it’s an opportunity to learn about a different culture in the most welcoming, joyful way. Everyone’s invited, and everyone belongs.

What I’ve realized is that Diwali isn’t just about lighting diyas (oil lamps) or eating amazing food (though, let’s be real, that’s a big part of it). It’s about connection. It’s about spreading light in a world that sometimes feels too dark and finding joy in the little things—like the sparkle of a diya, the beat of a drum, or the warmth of a friend’s laugh.
So, if you’ve never been to Diwali Night at Tufts, go. Even if you don’t know anyone there, trust me, you’ll leave with new friends and maybe even a dance move or two. And for those of us who’ve been lucky enough to experience it before, we know that Diwali at Tufts isn’t just an event. It’s a tradition that keeps growing brighter, year after year.