University of Westminster celebrates Diwali with World in Westminster festival

The World in Westminster series is part of the Quintin Hogg Trust-funded EDI project Westminster for All – Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, which aims to foster diversity, inclusivity and a sense of global citizenship across the University community.

Diwali is the festival of lights and symbolises the human urge to move toward the light, with the word Diwali coming from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning rows of lighted lamps. The festival traditionally includes lighting lamps, cleaning homes and performing rituals, which can symbolically and energetically clear stagnant energy and offer spiritual renewal.

The celebrations were officially welcomed with short talks from Professor Dibyesh Anand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability, and Professor Peter Bonfield, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University, who highlighted the importance of community, inclusivity and being a global citizen. 

With the room decorated with vibrant lights, Diwali puja and rituals were performed by Priest Shivam Bhatt, who explained the significance of offerings and prayers during the festival. Before the puja, attendees participated in Aarti, which was led by Rajat Shah, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Officer at the University and the event organiser, who spoke about Diwali and the importance of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha in Hinduism. 

Five student societies actively participated in the event, showcasing their unique contributions to the festivities. These were the Bhangra Society, Malang Dance Team, Tamil Society, Hindu Society and the Worldwide Society. Stalls featured henna art by the Tamil Society and a Rangoli display by the Worldwide Society, creating an immersive cultural experience for all attendees.

The programme also included two standout dance performances from the Bhangra Society and the Malang Bollywood Dance Team who delighted attendees with their vibrant choreography. 
Soumya Sharma, the Bhangra Society Treasurer, EDI intern and PhD student in Biology, introduced the performance. She said afterwards: "It was a truly wonderful experience, surrounded by inspiring individuals and a vibrant atmosphere. It was an honour to be part of such an amazing team.

This marked the second occasion on which the Bhangra Society had the privilege to perform at this event, and we thoroughly enjoyed sharing our culture through dance. As an international student, I felt a deep sense of belonging, from the heartfelt prayer and beautiful lighting to the thoughtful decorations and delicious food, every detail reflected warmth and inclusivity.”

Dia Wagle, captain of the Malang team, added: “The event gave our team a chance to not just celebrate one of the biggest festivals but also feel a sense of community and express our passion. Bringing everyone together through dancing has been a memorable experience for all of us!”
To conclude the evening, guests enjoyed traditional food, chai and Parle-G biscuits, as well as a lively dance session that transformed the venue into a festive dance floor. Students and guests alike celebrated late into the evening, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.

Rajat said: "Diwali has always been one of the best times of the year for me, filled with memories of celebration, sweets, prayers and being surrounded by loved ones. This year was no different, being surrounded by the Westminster family and being able to share my culture and religion with many. I am so grateful to the University and its senior leadership for giving me the opportunity to do this and for their continued presence and support as we drive meaningful progress in fostering belonging and developing global citizens.”

Professor Anand added: “It was heartening to witness a diverse range of students, colleagues and members of the public from all around London come together to celebrate Diwali as part of our flagship World in Westminster (WIW) series. Our WIW series aims to bring together those for whom a festival is part of their culture and those for whom it is not; our festivals are therefore inclusive of believers and non-believers. We believe in the power of festivals to bring individuals and communities together.”

This celebration directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society. 

Find out more about upcoming equality, diversity and inclusion events at the University of Westminster.