The University is going to be viewed in a new light this evening; as much light as students can get from their clay lamps anyway.

Students can experience the University’s annual Diwali Festival on Lee Field at 5 p.m. and they can expect plenty of entertainment.

Bollywood tunes, cricket playing and free food will be part of the Diwali celebration, but the Indian roots may provide a deeper aspect for participants.

The festival focuses on the lighting of clay lamps to mark the victory of good over evil and is celebrated on grand scale in India. Although the festival lasts four days, the students have Friday evening to make the most of their celebration.

Indian food, games, cultural programs and music will be a few attractions at the event. Indian Graduate Student Association (MAITRI) and the South Asian Student Association (EKTAA) have come together to organize this event.

Aditya Ravi, a graduate student in mechanical engineering and president of MAITRI, said they tried to appeal to the entire triangle area with this year’s festival.

“We celebrate Diwali on grand scale at N.C. State campus,” Ravi said, “this year we decided to go big and opened this event for the entire triangle area. We are doing something like a [carnival].”

According to Ravi, the event is free and there will be many games, food, songs and dancing during the event.

“You can expect lot of games, fun and a variety of food items like chaat, sweets, lassi and even Indo – Chinese food. We have dances presented by Raas Leela, Nasha Bollywood and Natya academy, !NJYAN, a band will play songs,” Ravi said.

According to Ravi, Nov. 12 is classified as Indian Culture Day by OIS – International Educational Week—and Student Body President Kelly Hook is also expected to attend Diwali.

Ashutosh Garg, a junior in aerospace engineering and co-President of EKTAA, said there will be a lot of cultural activities at the event.

“We are planning a lot of activities, one of them is cricket, we will be introducing cricket to N.C State students since it is exciting and it’s a part of our culture,” Garg said.

According to Garg, there will be a lot of people coming because it’s held on a grand scale and has been promoted using Facebook, distributing Flyers and using Radio Service as well.

Ketaki Bhosekar, graduate student in computer networking and general secretary Maitri, said clay pots won’t be the only thing sparking students’ interest at the event.

“We will have a fashion parade as well as Mehandi and Rangoli stalls. I would encourage everyone to check them out.”

According to Bhosekar, the preparations started a month back and extensive planning was needed to make this event possible.

“We have planned it in open environment at lee fields,” Bhosekar said. “Lighting up the entire place will be an important task, also setting up a big stage for performances are critical and needed time and planning.”

Hersh Shah, junior in mechanical engineering and co-President Ektaa, said “There is increasing awareness about the program on campus. This is absolutely free event; I would encourage everyone to come together and get to know what Diwali is.”

According to Shah, a work permit and noise permit had to be obtained for this event from SORC office at Tally Student Center.

Ravi said, “DJ Rang will be coming to the campus to make you dance to his tunes, we have lots of gifts and surprises in store and you will be enlightened and surprised.”

According to Ravi, the event would not have been possible without help from student government, Fire Marshalls, Lee Field Operators and restaurants viz. Raj Bhog, Bamboo Garden and Bombay – Beijing.

Andy Sen, junior in civil engineering said, “I have heard of Diwali and I would like to know more. I am excited about attending the event and experiencing something that you don’t get here in America.”

Christian Olson, a graduate student in college of management said, “I am extremely excited about attending Diwali, because it’s a way for me to show the respect and high esteem that I have developed for my Indian friends since they have come to the U.S.”

According to Olson, he already has traditional Indian clothing in place for this event and he plans to attend the event.