Diwali Resources

All photos from the Indian Graduate Students Association Diwali Night, October 28th, 2023.

Diwali or Dipavali, also known as the festival of lights, is celebrated on October 28th to November 2nd. Diwali is one of the most important holidays in Hinduism, and overlaps with celebrations in the Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain communities, including Bandi Chhor Divas in the Sikh tradition. Commemorating the triumph of good over evil, Diwali is associate with many gods, including Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity, and Ganesha, the god of wisdom. Diwali lasts for five days, during which time people light candles, or ‘diya,’ perform puja (ritual worship), decorate floors with ranjoli designs, and partake in large communal meals. You may wish someone a happy Diwali, or “Shubh Diwali,” which means “Blessed Diwali.”

From a student:

Diwali is one of the central Hindu celebrations, a time marked by large family gatherings, decorating our homes, and eating good food and many sweets. Many of us celebrating Diwali try to go home, especially if we have loved ones nearby, but this can be hard in the midst of class, exams, and more. People aren’t usually aware Diwali is happening, so if you are don’t be scared to wish people a Happy Diwali! Care and kindness are the true lights of this celebration, just as much as the diyas (candles) and fireworks we enjoy.

Scroll down to learn about UW–Madison academic policy, celebrations, and more campus and community resources.

Academic policies

Existing policy and Academic Calendar guidance on Religious Observances note that:

Instructors should not schedule exams and other mandatory academic requirements on days when religious observances may cause substantial student absences. A non-exhaustive list of cultural, religious, and ethnic holidays is provided by the Office of the Secretary of the Faculty. Additional observances may exist that are not included on this list.
Students should notify the course instructor within the first two weeks of the semester/term of the specific dates conflicting with an exam or assignment.
Per policy, any student with a conflict between an academic requirement and any religious observance must be given an alternative for meeting the academic requirement.
Instructors received this memo at the start of the academic year regarding religious observances.

Students can use this template to connect with professors to request flexibility on classwork or evening exams.

Communities and RSOs:

Many student organizations including Indian Students Association, HinduYUVA, Indian Grad Students Associations, and others host Diwali celebrations open to students, faculty, and staff. You can learn more on their websites and social media. Below are a number of highlighted events.