India is a home to a large number of international students from across the globe

New Delhi,

Welcoming the festival of lights , Sharda University in collaboration with Antar Rashtriya Sahayog Parishad (ARSP) conducted an event to celebrate the upcoming festival of Diwali among the international students’ community residing in Delhi & NCR region on Tuesday, the 22nd October 2019 at the Sharda University campus. More than 800 international students from around 50-60 countries took part in this grand celebration. The event was made memorable through a wide array of colorful and attractive performances which includes Indian classical, folk and International cultural art forms. To grace the occasion Honourable Speaker of the Lok Sabha – Shri Om Birla was invited as the Chief Guest.

India is today a home to a large number of international students from across the globe. These students after completion of their education take back life-long memories of their knowledge and experiences collected over their period of time spent in India. These students in fact, act as our voluntary Cultural Ambassadors in their respective countries, for life. Hence, it is very important to introduce them to the ethos and history behind different festivals celebrated in this land in a proper and authentic way.

Addressing the occasion Shri Om Birla, Honourable Speaker Lok Sabha said, “A festival is an active state of the mind and brings about refreshment in lives. The most amazing and appealing part about any festival is that it surpasses religion, ethnicity, and all the shackles, small or big, which usually set people apart. Festivals inculcate and promote the message of brotherhood and unity.”

Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Hon’ble Member of Parliament and Ex-Minister of Culture & Tourism Govt. of India was also present on the occasion and said,” The significance of the festival may carry nuanced differences according to region and within the traditions. However, despite all the differences, a common symbolism remains – Festive are the occasions that mark love, prosperity, harmony and peace.” He further added,” I am feeling so happy to see how organizers have combined the high spirit of Diwali and the ‘Joy of Cultural Sharing’ by celebrating the festival with their national and international friends at the exotic campus.”

Commenting on the occasion Mr. Pradeep Kumar Gupta, Chancellor, Sharda University and Chairman, SGI said, “The beauty of such events is that they bring cultures and communities together. Sharda University is not just a University but a community that values cultural diversity, respect for religion, age, gender, and socio-economic status. The university is a hub of students from more than 80 countries. We at Sharda University believe in the power of unity in diversity and take continuous effort to promote it.” He further added, “We would like to thank everyone for making this event a huge success and wish you all a very Happy Diwali – glowing with peace, joy and prosperity.”

Dr. Satish Chandra Dwivedi – Hon’ble Minister of Primary Education, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Mahesh Sharma – Hon’ble Member of Parliament and Ex- Union Minister of Culture and Tourism were also present on the occasion as Guests of Honour. Also, many dignitaries including diplomats from several embassies / high commissions were the part of the extravagant celebration.