Diwali or Deepavali, also known as the festival of lights, is celebrated on Monday, October 20 to Friday, October 24. 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 associated 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, called diya, perform puja (ritual worship), decorate floors with rangoli designs, and partake in large communal meals. You may wish someone a happy Diwali, or “Shubh Diwali,” which means “Blessed Diwali.”
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.
UW-Madison Student
Policies and Guidelines for Instructors
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Religious Observances Policy
Existing religious observances academic policy note that:
- Instructors should announce early in the semester that your students must notify you within the first two weeks of class of the specific days or dates on which they request relief. Including this information on your course syllabus is encouraged, to make sure your students are informed of the policy.
- Make‑ups may be scheduled before or after the regularly scheduled requirements.
- It is understood that instructors may set reasonable limits on the total number of days claimed by any one student. Occasionally, students may not fully understand the necessity for prior notice, and under these circumstances we urge you to be as flexible as possible. Our policy seeks to be sensitive to the needs of individual students.
Religious Observances Guidelines
Instructors should follow these guidelines:
- Proactively plan ahead to avoid conflicts between examinations or major course activities and religious observances, when possible.
- 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.
- You can also add religious observances to your Outlook calendar.
- Communicate with your students early (e.g., mention in your course syllabi and class announcements), and highlight the shared responsibility – students are responsible for notifying instructors within the first two weeks of classes of the date(s) on which they request relief due to a religious observance.
- Accept students’ requests at face value.
- Be prepared to offer students alternative pathways to fulfill course requirements (including class attendance) in cases where conflicts can’t be avoided.
Students can use this template to connect with professors to request flexibility on classwork or evening exams.
Communities and RSOs:
Many student organizations and Madison-area organizations 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.
Highlighted Events
Diwali Night with Indian Grad Student Association
Garba Night with Indian Students Association
Rainbow Diwali with the CID, GSCC, and APIDA Cultural Centers
Diwali Night with Malaysian Student Association
Pumpkin & Diya Decorating with Sikh Student Association and Mann Mukti