At CBU, we recognize the importance of taking the time to celebrate special occasions with our students. November 4 marks the beginning of Diwali, India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year. Diwali is celebrated by followers of Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism and is often considered the most unifying celebration in India.
Typically, we would celebrate with a large event in the Canada Games Complex to share this important part of our students’ culture with the community, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that was not possible. Instead, we celebrated on campus with several smaller events like diya decorating, a fashion show, dance show and Henna, to name a few.
From all of us at Cape Breton University, we wish you a safe and Happy Diwali!
Check out some of the videos below to learn about what Diwali means and how CBU students celebrated in the past. Happy Diwali!
Rangoli is a traditional form of art usually demonstrated during Diwali. It is a large pattern made on the floor using coloured powder, rice or flower petals. Rangoli designs are thought to bring good luck, generosity and strength, which is why it’s important to the Diwali celebration of light’s victory over darkness.
Bhangra is a high-energy dance that has traditionally been used to celebrate the harvest. Bhangra dancers wear colourful attire during the dance called vardiyaan. Vardiyaan is not only visually beautiful but allows for maximum movement in this energetic dance.
These performances demonstrate the fusion of traditional and modern music and dance in India. India’s youth take traditional elements like dance moves and songs and put their own modern spin on them. These performances are great examples of fusion movement.
Paisa Vasool is a dance group comprised of students from Southern India which creates fusion performances.
Cape Mallus is a dance team made up of nine people who perform a high-energy dance number from the southern part of India. Their dance includes classic Malayalam and Telugu music.
Garba is a style of dance usually performed during a festival called Navratri and is very popular with youth in India, particularly those from Gujarat.
Showing off cultural clothing is a tradition during Diwali celebrations. Here are some highlights of the Cultural Clothing display from 2019.
Learn how to make traditional Shahi Paneer step-by-step with CBU Chef Jason Bailey and CBU student Prateek Yadav.
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