Southeast Missouri State University student publication

Indian Subcontinent Student Association hosts ninth Indian Night

Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Southeast Missouri State University's Indian Subcontinent Student Association hosted its annual event, which celebrates Indian culture on Friday, March 24 in the Student Rec Center-North.

ISSA’s president Meet Patel helped plan and coordinate the event. Patel said there were notable changes in this year's Indian Night from previous years.

"We're decorating more cultural so people can get to know about Indian culture … so we are decorating in a more authentic way," Patel said.

Approximately 500 guests attended Indian Night, which is a strong turnout among cultural student activities and comparable to previous Indian Night events.

The event began with a short musical video presentation showcasing India and its colorful, multi-faith culture. Patel sang the Indian national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana”, with freshman Tushar Saini playing guitar.

Southeast students Avaradita Mukharjee, Rutvi Zalawadia and Priyanka Kashyap participated in dance performances at the event. According to Patel, the dances and clothing showcased various regions of India.

Quiz questions related to Indian culture were scattered throughout the event, focusing on topics of languages and important historical events, such as the year of India's independence in 1947. Prizes were given to guests who answered questions correctly.

In a segment of the evening, members of ISSA shared their experiences of living abroad and guests also shared their own experiences. The experiences were mainly focused around India.

Midway through the night, guests were served authentic Indian food through the catering service of Namaskar, a local Indian restaurant. Most of the guests agreed the food was the best part of the night.

Southeast student Mizuki Kato provided her insight on Indian culture and the event.

"The food was really good. ... I loved the traditional clothes, they are gorgeous,” Kato said. “I was excited to see [the dancing], it was glamorous. They have unique songs and hand movements in their dancing."

Nepali student Darpan Parajuli also had a positive reception to the event.

“Indian Nights are awesome because it's represent Indian culture, and enhances understanding their culture to the people who aren't accustomed to,” Parajuli said. “My favorite part is cultural performances, and of course food. India is rich in culture and it's amazing to see that in action, here in SEMO.”

Southeast President Dr. Carlos Vargas interacted with students at the event and even danced while in attendance.He also applauded the association's effort and mission in representing Indian culture.

"They did a wonderful job in showing their culture," Vargas said. "[Indian Night] helps domestic students try to understand India and its people; they are a very warm and amazing people."

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