On November 6, students gathered during community block to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights. The event was co-sponsored by the South Asian Student Association and Asian American Association to celebrate light, renewal, and the joy of being a part of a diverse school community. There was music, dancing, henna, and delicious samosas and jamun (an Indian desert akin to a donut dipped in syrup).

One of the major highlights of the event was the student dance performances. The dancers had been practicing for weeks to bring traditional choreography to life, and there was lots of excitement in the audience. Their performance blended modern and classical elements, making the celebration feel both festive and personal. Maya and Jasmine Bonfante (Sophomores) both participated in the event by performing an incredibly beautiful dance, which they choreographed themselves! They talked about how they loved sharing their culture with others in the Prep community through dance. Furthermore, Mannath Rathi and Kunsh Chopra (8th Grade) performed an electrifying dance on an upbeat Bollywood song, which held the audience captive as the crowd clapped and cheered with every beat. 

Beyond the dancing, students enjoyed activities like henna, music, and time spent with friends. Many students said this year’s event felt especially warm and welcoming, as it created a space for cultural expression and connection across grade levels throughout the community. The event also helped students learn more about Diwali and the traditions behind it, which made the afternoon feel more meaningful and joyful.

The celebration left everyone with a warm, excited energy that lasted long after it ended. Diwali gave students a chance to connect and learn about each other’s cultures, all while enjoying being part of a diverse and multicultural school community.