Eastlake students to host Diwali Night

Eastlake High School’s Indian Student Association (ISA) is hosting its sixth annual Diwali Night on Dec. 1, promising an evening filled with entertainment, culture, and community.

“The purpose of the ISA at Eastlake is creating a supportive community for all Wolves and…accurately representing the Indian community,” said Jyoti Bawa, the advisor of ISA and a teacher at Eastlake.

Diwali is a festival celebrated throughout India and various other parts of the world, signifying the victory of good over evil. 

“This festival has religious, cultural, as well as social dimensions…bringing communities together to strengthen their bonds and foster a sense of belonging,” Bawa said.

For most people, Diwali involves a thorough cleaning of the house, decorating with lights, an evening prayer, and welcoming guests for a Diwali party. There are also sweet and savory foods on offer, and occasionally, fireworks.

“For us, Diwali is about celebrating it with our loved ones,” Gatha Vaghela, an Eastlake sophomore, said.

The Diwali Night event will begin with many performances, including a Bharatanatyam piece by Nritya, the classical dance team within ISA. The organizers also plan to play games such as musical chairs with the guests and open the dance floor to all attendees. Snacks will be offered to guests. 

The event is free and open to the community, and it will be in the main gym at Eastlake from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

ISA has had many successful Diwali Nights at Eastlake. Organizers expect over 200 students will attend this year.

“I’m planning on going to this year’s EHS Diwali,” Vaghela said. “And from people who went last year, I’ve heard it’s a fun time.”