Indian Festivities: Celebrations in Cardiff

Indian festivals are celebrated with joy and enthusiasm at Cardiff University, where a diverse student community including students from India and other cultural backgrounds come together to celebrate Indian culture. These celebrations, organized by Indian student associations or cultural societies, like YUVA Indian Society, Hindu Cultural Society and the Student Union provide an opportunity for students to share their traditions with others and create a sense of community.

As an international student at the university, you may experience homesickness and anxiety during celebration times, feeling alone. However, participating in small celebrations and get-togethers can make a difference. Indian festivities and celebrations are also widely appreciated by the Indian diaspora and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds who have an interest in Indian culture. These celebrations are known for their vibrancy, colourfulness, and inclusiveness, showcasing the richness and diversity of Indian culture. They provide a means for Indians living abroad to preserve their cultural heritage, foster a sense of community, and uphold their traditions.

Some of the major Indian festivities celebrated at Cardiff University are:

Diwali: Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most popular Indian festivals celebrated at Cardiff University. Diwali celebrations at SU and Residence life students typically include lighting of lamps and candles, activities including colourful origami making, traditional Indian music and dance performances, and delicious Indian food.

Holi: Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is another popular Indian festival. Residence life at the university also organises these events for university accommodation where people throw coloured powders and water at each other. Holi celebrations at Cardiff University often include music, dance, and fun activities such as a colour run and traditional Indian snacks.

Navratri: Navratri is a Hindu festival that spans over nine nights and is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga. YUVA Indian Society and Hindu Cultural Society also organises these events which include traditional Indian dance performances such as Garba and Dandiya, which are vibrant and energetic dances performed in colourful traditional attire.

Eid: Eid is a significant Islamic festival celebrated by the Muslim community, including Indian Muslims. The festival marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam. Eid celebrations typically include special prayers and festive activities such as cultural performances and games with great feasts with traditional Indian dishes.

In addition to the well-known Indian festivals, there may be other regional or cultural celebrations organized by the Indian student community based on their interests and preferences. These celebrations could include variety of food options including vegan and other dietary preferences, accommodate diverse requirements with cultural meetups, langar (community meal), rangoli (decorative art), mehndi (henna) events, party nights with Indian music and mores, both at the university and in the city. These festivities provide a platform for students to come together, celebrate their culture, and share the joy of Indian traditions with the wider university community. They may also involve visits to Swami Narayan temple, Iskcon Temple, Sikh Gurudwara and events at CU Foods.