QIU’s Student Centre was packed from corner to corner with QIU staff, students and alumni for the highly anticipated annual Deepavali celebration last Wednesday.
The University’s Hindu Society has been organising Deepavali events for the past four years, and the QIU family has come to expect a captivating blend of colour, culture and celebration.
We’re glad to report that the tradition continued in style, as this year’s event was filled with vibrant colours, delicious food and fascinating cultural performances.
The event went splendidly well as the audience were wowed by the amazing acts on show. Kicking off the show was Bachelor of Finance (Hons) student Kamalavilooshene Aplanaidu with a performance of the Indian classical dance ‘Bharathanatyam’.
Local artists from the Sebastiar Arts Academy then performed a traditional ‘Mayilattam’ dance which literally translates to ‘Dance of the Peacock’ and an ancient folk dance ‘Karagattam’ which is also known as the ‘Silver pot dance’.
Another highlight was a musical act by Bachelor in Finance (Hons) student Nagina Krishnan, Bachelor of Accountancy (Hons) student Kanagaswary Rajah Sigaran, and Diploma in Business Management student Navinthar Nandanathan, who showcased their musical talents that the crowd could not help but sing along to.
QIU Chief Operating Officer Nicholas Goh, QIU Registrar Muhammad MG Omar and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Prof. Dato’ Dr Sellaiah S. Pillay were present to officiate the event.
“Deepavali signifies the triumph of good over evil, light over dark. Just like other festivals in Malaysia, Deepavali is an occasion for social togetherness. We as Malaysians should be grateful that we can celebrate various festivals in a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere,” said Muhammad.
The display of colourful culture was an eye-opener for many of our students, especially our international contingent.
International student Yearim Arba Yorkaef Hutagalung, who hails from Indonesia, commented, “My favourite part would be the performances because it’s certainly new for me. I have heard of peacock dance before but seeing it live in action? It’s refreshing! It’s amazing and entertaining, I enjoyed it.“
Newly-appointed president of the QIU Hindu Society Nadish Kulasekaran from Bachelor of Arts (Hons) TESL said that the club will deliver more exciting events in the future, including Deepavali, a Thaipusam Food Charity and Akshaya events.
“Our society has been given a chance to aid the betterment of society through culture. I’m truly excited to work with my team as they are truly dedicated towards their duties,” he said.
