On November 15, 2023, the School of Management proudly hosted this year's Diwali celebration. Students in diverse traditional attire, enthusiastically greeted each other in their languages which reflected the acceptance and celebration of diversity. The start of the Gujarati New Year celebration was filled with happiness, especially through traditional Indian treats that gave a sense of cultural pride which united the New York Tech community together.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, holds cultural and religious significance in India. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, symbolizing the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana as depicted in the epic Ramayana. Diwali typically lasts for five days, with each day having its own unique rituals and customs. People clean and decorate their homes, light oil lamps (diyas), burst fireworks, and exchange gifts and sweets with loved ones.

One of the central themes of Diwali is the importance of inner light. The illumination of homes with oil lamps signifies the dispelling of spiritual darkness and the awakening of knowledge within oneself. Families come together to perform puja (prayers) to deities such as Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. The exchange of gifts and sweets symbolize the strengthening of bonds and the spirit of sharing joy with others. Diwali is a time for reflection, renewal, and the beginning of a new year for many communities in India, especially for businesses in the Gujarati culture, where it is customary to start the financial year with celebrations, prayers, and a positive outlook.

I believe this celebration served as an extraordinary way for students to feel a sense of “home” away from home. Beyond the cultural experience, the celebration acted as a catalyst for meaningful interactions among students, staff and faculty. The sense of belonging, together with the shared joy, not only strengthened the bonds within the New York Tech community and student body, but it also created a sense of unity and friendship.

The Diwali event was not only a celebration of culture, but it served as a platform for valuable networking among students and faculty. The success of the event could not have been achieved without the School of Management's Dean, Deborah Y. Cohn, and Professor William Ninehan, who played instrumental roles as the backbone and support of the event. 

The School of Management and I would like to extend our gratitude to Kishore Saravana, Amanda Laura, Tanviben Dilipbhai Ramoliya, Su Myat Noe Wai, Nishna Veeranki, Benny Joseph, Master of Business Administration students for their dedication to the success of this celebration.

By Ayushi Lakhani
Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Operations & Supply Chain Management

Edited by Patthara Chandaragga