Youths across North American university campuses rekindled their flame of character, integrity, and spirituality through the annual BAPS Campus Diwali Celebration, hosted by the BAPS Campus Fellowship. This year, 46 campuses across North America held Campus Diwali Celebrations. Collegiate youths, often located far from their childhood friends and family, balanced their academic schedules to plan, organize, and participate in the event. In addition, student volunteers hand-prepared various vegetarian food items to offer as an annakut, upholding cornerstone elements of the Diwali tradition. Over 5,000 students, faculty, and community members participated in these celebrations.
The program was themed "Diwali Inspires," sharing the light that Diwali brings into our lives through culture, community, and reflection. Diwali inspires culture through eternal traditions that bring the community together through service and kindness. The program enabled participants to reflect on the values of Diwali that they can imbibe in their lives: simplicity, the power of prayer, and seeking inspiration from a Guru. The exhibition and program also introduced attendees to the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
These powerful messages of "Diwali Inspires" were illustrated through interactive exhibits and motivational speeches by Pujya Swamis. Many attendees arrived in traditional Indian clothing and were welcomed in accordance with Hindu customs by receiving a chandlo (red vermillion mark) on their forehead and a nadachhadi (red sacred thread) tied on their wrists. Guests, faculty, staff, and students were inspired to think of one another during this festive time and work for the betterment of society at large when setting personal and professional goals.
Under the spiritual guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS continues to promote and organize activities that celebrate the spirit and values of Hindu festivals while simultaneously enriching today's youth with vital life lessons. These lessons equip young people with the tools to share peace, love, and harmony, while providing selfless service to the community.