AUSTIN, TEXAS, November 14, 2007: The students in the University of Texas chapter of the Hindu Students Council celebrated Diwali this year with a bang. On November 9, students gathered at the base of the University of Texas tower to participate in a Lakshmi Pooja, sing bhajans and watch a fireworks show. Diwali is put on by the Hindu Students Council every year and is always a success, but organizers were impressed with the large turnout this year. Over 500 students of all faiths turned out to express support of the university Hindu community. The event started at 5:30 PM with a Rangoli contest and a Diya Decorating contest. At 6:30 PM, Acharyaji Soneraro from the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston began the Lakshmi Havan puja. The Acharya, at the request of the Hindu Students Council, explained the complex puja in English to the polyglot participants and included them in the havan rituals. Following the puja, participants listened to bhajans and then performed aarti to the images of the Ashta Lakshmi. All participants were given a chance to perform the Aarti and to partake in the Prasad. At 9:00 PM, a spectacular fireworks show commenced over the tower.
This event was completely organized by students in the Hindu Students Council, one of the largest Indian groups on campus. It serves as a forum for discussion and socializing between the approximately 1,500 Hindu students on campus.
For a report on the celebration in the Daily Texan, click here