Celebrate Diwali in Exeter with fireworks, food and dancing

Everyone is invited to celebrate Diwali at the University of Exeter, with students hosting a spectacular event featuring fireworks, dancing, food and games.

The celebrations will be held at the University’s Streatham campus on Sunday 15 November 2026.

There will be activities for all ages in the Forum building, including henna workshops, dance workshops, and the chance for people to decorate their own diya (lamps) and make their own Diwali cards, badges and bangles.

People can try on traditional dress, see a beautiful rangoli and find out more about Diwali. There will be delicious food available to purchase.

Students will showcase their talents during a spectacular Diwali show featuring singing and dancing in the Great Hall. After this a Dohn drummer will lead those celebrating to a firework display at the rear of the XFI building.

Most activities are free but there will be a small fee for diya painting, henna workshops and food.  

Anusha Sharma, President of the University of Exeter South Asian Society, said: “Diwali has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up in Dubai, my parents ensured I never felt disconnected from my Indian roots, celebrating Diwali with grandeur, surrounded by family and friends. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a university that embraces and celebrates Diwali with the same spirit and enthusiasm.

“It is heartwarming to see the cultural societies come together, putting in so much effort to bring this beautiful celebration to life. I am especially looking forward to dressing up in traditional attire, indulging in festive sweets and delicious food, enjoying the vibrant stalls and dance performances, and sharing the joy of Diwali with everyone!”

Laksh Lalwani, co-president of the University of Exeter Hindu Society, said: “Diwali has always been one of my favourite times of the year. For me, it means family, endless food, a house full of laughter and of course, bursting crackers! Moving away from home and celebrating in Exeter has made me realise just how much these little moments mean. The University of Exeter has given me a little family here, and being able to celebrate with them makes it more special.

“Diwali celebrates Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya, and I love how a festival about coming home still brings people together today. That’s what makes celebrating it in Exeter so special. Whether it’s your first Diwali or you’ve celebrated it your whole life, everyone is welcome. I love seeing people from different backgrounds come together, enjoy the food, music, and festivities, and share something new. If someone walks in not knowing anyone and leaves feeling like they belong, that’s the kind of Diwali I want us to create.

“Diwali in Dubai was my favourite time of the year. The house was full of family, the food never stopped and everyone was laughing. When I came to Exeter, I didn’t think I’d feel that again. I missed home more than I told anyone. Then the Hindu Society welcomed me in, and I found a second family a long way from the first.

“Diwali is the story of Lord Ram coming home to Ayodhya. It’s about welcoming someone home, and it still brings people together. That’s what I want for everyone this year. Whether it’s your first Diwali or your fifteenth, you belong here. Come, share some food, enjoy the music, and leave feeling like you were home all along.”

Anmol Udeshi, co-president of the University of Exeter Hindu Society, said: “For me Diwali means family, faith, and the joy of being together. One of my favourite Diwali memories is making and distributing sweets with my mum. It has always been the highlight of my year. I also love when everyone comes together for pooja, a moment to pray, give thanks, and celebrate as a family.

“Living in Exeter, Diwali has taken on an even deeper meaning for me. Keep traditions alive whilst being away from home, gives me a little piece of home here. It reminds me that family is not only about where you are from, but also about the people who make you feel that you belong. For me, Diwali is a reminder to carry that sense togetherness and hope with me, wherever I am.”

Manaswini Chitre, Vice President of the University of Exeter Hindu Society, said: “Diwali carries the spirit of community, connection and good times. It’s a reminder that every day is what you make it; there is light if you choose to seek it out. Seeing families reconnect and friends make memories for a lifetime on Diwali at University is heartwarming. I love bustling about making sure the day goes perfectly and seeing those happy faces makes it all worth it. That’s the light we carry with ourselves and in our community.”

Ishita Gulla, President of the Asian Society at the University of Exeter, said “We all know Diwali is a big celebration of good over evil, and we celebrate the return of ram back to the kingdom, but for me it’s more than the lights, food and music, it’s about my entire family coming together to pray, bond over food, music and lots of friendly games of poker, charades and my family traditions. 

“Diwali is a grand and abundant celebration for warmth, light and love and at Exeter we plan to have the same sort of experience and celebration this year

“Diwali is a reminder that no matter how dark life gets, there’s always light waiting to shine through” 

Mahek Agarwal, President of the University of Exeter Indian Society, said: “Diwali is a reminder that no matter how dark life gets, there’s always light waiting to shine through” 

The event begins with a Puja led by Hindu Chaplain in the Forum at 2:30pm. The students performances start at 5.30pm, and the fireworks at 6:45pm.