RAPID CITY, SD (Oct.22, 2025) – The India Club at South Dakota Mines invites the community to join in one of the campus’s most anticipated annual traditions: the 36th Diwali Festival of Lights, on Saturday, Oct. 25, in the Beck Ballroom at the Surbeck Center.
The free event features dazzling cultural performances, authentic Indian cuisine, henna art and fireworks to light up the night.
Each year, hundreds of people gather for Diwali, a celebration that honors the “victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.” Across India, the festival fills the streets and homes with shimmering lamps, colorful rangolis, joyful music and the aroma of freshly prepared dishes.
Diwali festivities at Mines begin with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony at 5 p.m., followed by a fireworks show. The cultural performances begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by an authentic Indian dinner. The food is prepared by Indian students enrolled at Mines, aided by the local Indian community. Henna hand-painting stations and photo booths will also be available.
“Diwali Night is more than just a celebration of light — it’s a reminder of the strength of community, unity, and cultural exchange,” said Varun Pushpa, club president and doctoral student in materials and metallurgical engineering. “We’re excited to share this festival with our campus community and invite everyone to experience the joy and togetherness that Diwali represents. It truly reflects what makes our campus unique.”
The India Club extends gratitude to this year’s sponsors, including the Black Hills Eye Clinic, Phase Technologies, Tropical Smoothie, Property Meld, Everest Cuisine and Coca-Cola. The India Club appreciates any and all support from the public; those who wish to donate can find a link here.
To see highlights from last year’s celebration, visit the 2024 photo album.