ETSU’s SASA club will host the Diwali Holiday Festival on Saturday, Nov. 23, in the D.P. Culp Student Center, which all students are welcome to attend.
ETSU’s South Asian Student Association (SASA) is an important organization on campus that hosts many events and activities throughout the year to celebrate South Asian culture.
Founder and president of the club, Aashi Vora said, “Ultimately, SASA isn’t just a club—it’s a home for students who need it most and a bridge to build connections among diverse groups. By giving a platform to share stories, traditions, and experiences, SASA enriches the ETSU community and highlights the beauty of global perspectives.”
SASA shares South Asian culture and allows its members to educate and celebrate holidays and traditions with everyone on campus. The Diwali Festival will be a celebration open to all students.
“Through events and activities, SASA ensures that South Asian holidays, traditions and values are celebrated openly, not just by its members but by the broader campus community. These celebrations help promote understanding and appreciation of South Asia’s vibrant heritage, breaking down cultural barriers and fostering inclusivity,” Vora said.
Diwali is the most important holiday of the year in India. It represents Dharma’s spiritual victory over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil. The holiday marks the end of the Hindu calendar year and the beginning of the new year. Celebration of the holiday often involves large festivals full of lights, food and worship.
“The Diwali Holiday Festival is an annual event hosted by SASA celebrating the cultural New Year. It is the celebration of light and good over evil. We will have dancing, food and music! We would love to see everyone’s cultural attires, but wear what you feel best in,” Vora said.
The event will take place in Ballrooms A and B in the D.P. Culp Student Center on Saturday, Nov. 23., from 6 to 9 p.m. For information, email etsusasa23@gmail.com.
