On November, 2, one of the most important national celebrations of India, “Diwali”, took place at Penza State University. Over the last four years this event has become one of the most awaited events of Indian culture. Among its honoured guests were: Saldaev D.A., Head of International Education Office; Mitroshin A.N., Director of Medical Institute; Rodian I.Yu., Vice-Rector’s assistant; Moiseeva I.Ya, Dean of Faculty of General Medicine, Medical Institute; Yuvraj Solanki, Chairman of Indian Students’ Association in Penza.

The Indian students were welcomed by Saldaev D.A. first in Russian, then in English. He emphasized the growing number of Indian students at PSU: “I am very happy that you choose our University. And I assure you, your choice is correct”.

So that the Goddess of happiness, luck and wealth Lakshmi could visit the celebration, the honoured guests lit the fire as a symbol of victory of good over evil. “Diwali” is the Indian New Year when the old calendar finishes and the new one starts. It is also called the Festival of Lights. At this time large cities and small villages in India are shining with thousands of lights, and the sky is lit with colourful fireworks.

On this day the University teachers and staff were able to enjoy not only an amazing concert prepared by international students from India but also national Indian cuisine specially adapted for Russian people.