On November 5th, Cornell’s Society for India will host All of the Lights, a performance show in celebration of Diwali. Otherwise known as the festival of lights, Diwali is one of the biggest holidays celebrated throughout South Asia and the West Indies and celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair– something we could all use at this point in the semester. While the actual festival lasts five days, All of the Lights will occur in Bailey Hall for only one night. Here are just a few reason’s this year’s show will have you seeing fireworks–literally.
1The dancing.
A variety of dance performances are set to take the All of the Lights stage, including an impressive one by your seniors of Society for India that will have you not only get you on your feet but also wondering why you have zero coordination. Feel free to sway your hips to the beat, feel the music, or even just tap your foot to the melody. Whatever happens, the dances at All of the Lights will be sure to show you how you really should move.
2The humor.
Society for India knows you guys want to laugh, cry, and feel everything in between. This year’s show will feature a performance by stand-up comedian Adam Mamawala, who has been featured on Funny or Die and MTV’s Girl Code. If for nothing else, attend just to make your day a little brighter. You’ll be sure to leave in a great mood.
3The fashion.
Can’t attend Met Gala this year? Couldn’t even make it to New York or Paris Fashion Week either? No worries, the event also involves a fashion show that will surely have you texting your mom explaining why you just bought so many new clothes for the winter season.
4The experience.
As it is November, and we are well into and almost done with the semester, it’s easy to get tired of the same things. Everything starts to feel monotonous and repetitive. Take a much deserved study break to expand your horizons, get cultured and experience something brand new! Don’t worry about not knowing anything about Diwali or its customs, just bring a jacket and an open mind–you’ll be glad you did.
5The cause.
All of the proceeds from the All of the Lights Diwali Show will be donated to the Swami Vivekanda Youth Movement, an organization based in India that builds a new civil society through grassroots policy making in Health, Education, and Community Development Sectors. With a great show and a great cause, you have to attend. And yes, you can Venmo!
With so many awesome reasons to go, attending All of the Lights seems like a no-brainer. So what are you waiting for? Grab a friend (or 2 or 10) and go!
All of the Lights: Diwali Show 2016 will be held in Bailey Hall on November 5th. Tickets will be sold online or in person at Willard Straight, Mann, Duffield or RPCC. More information about the event can be found here.
