Celebrating Deepavali 2025: A Day of Light, Laughter, and Friendship
Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. For us, MSc Technopreneurship and Innovation Programme (TIP) students, this celebration served as a poignant reminder of the power of community, cultural exchange, and shared joy.
A Joyful Gathering in Traditional Colours
The celebration began with warm smiles and vibrant attire. Many of us wore traditional Indian outfits we had bought together at Little India. The room instantly filled with colour and excitement, setting a cheerful tone for the day.
 Kicking off the celebration in vibrant traditional attire, colour, smiles, and festive spirit all around. |
Before the festivities began, Adilakshmi from the MSc TIP (English Programme) led a short prayer. It was a meaningful moment that reminded us of Deepavali’s essence: gratitude and hope.
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Adilakshmi leads us in a heartfelt prayer, grounding the day in gratitude and hope.
Laughter Before the Festivities
Laughter and chatter filled the room early on. It was wonderful to see classmates from all over the world connect and enjoy each other’s company before the celebration officially started.
The joyous occasion officially kicked off with an inspiring sharing by Dr Xia Zhiqiang, Academic Director of NTUpreneur, and Ms Chen Fang, Assistant Director of Graduate Programmes. They highlighted the importance of fostering cohesion within the NTUpreneur community and of remembering the true spirit of Deepavali, a celebration of light, unity, and renewal. Their heartfelt words set the tone for an afternoon filled with warmth, gratitude, and togetherness.
Ms Chen Fang shares well wishes and to always look out for one another in difficult times. |
A Taste of Indian Tradition
No festival is complete without delicious food. We enjoyed an authentic Indian buffet featuring fragrant biryani, curries, naan, and a variety of sweet treats. For many, it was their first time trying a full vegetarian Indian meal, and it certainly was an epicurean experience to savour.
A feast of flavours: our first taste of authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine, every bite a new experience. |
Stories, Surprises, and a Quiz to Remember
After lunch, we gathered for a light-hearted Diwali storytelling session. You may have probably heard about Rama, Sita, and the epic tale behind Diwali, but this time, there was a fun twist. We were told to watch closely, because a surprise quiz was coming up. And yes, there were prizes!
The storytelling added depth to the celebration, blending culture, myth, and entertainment. The quiz sparked laughter and friendly competition as we tested how much we had really been paying attention.
Students gain a deeper understanding of Deepavali's traditions. |
Games, Fun, and Friendly “Punishments"
The energy stayed high as we moved on to Tambola (an Indian game of chance similar to Bingo) and a spin-the-wheel challenge, where participants took on light-hearted dares. Cheers echoed across the room as numbers were called. Skits, dances, and fun “punishments” added energy to the room, creating some of the day’s memorable highlights.
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From Rama and Sita to surprise quizzes, Tambola, spin-the-wheel dare and Bollywood dances, it was cheerful chaos, with a fun twist and prizes to match.
Performances That Lit Up the Room
A standout moment came with Adilakshmi took to the floor again for a classical Indian dance performance. Dressed in traditional attire, she moved gracefully and captured everyone’s attention and appreciation of everyone present. Her performance perfectly embodies the Deepavali spirit of beauty, joy, and cultural pride.
Adilakshmi's classical dance stole the show, with grace, rhythm, and tradition in every move. |
A Celebration to Remember
The event ended with bright smiles and endless laughter. For many, it was their first Deepavali celebration, and it was one to remember. Beyond the food and festivities, what stayed with us was the sense of belonging and appreciation for each other’s cultures.
 Together as one MSc TIP family, radiating light, love, and Deepavali spirit. |
Together as One MSc TIP Family
We closed the day with a big group photo. Everyone stood together in their colourful outfits, beaming with joy. It was the perfect ending to a celebration that reminded us how, even far from home, we can still create moments that feel like family
As TIP students learning to lead across cultures and build future-forward ventures, we know that trust, empathy, and shared experiences are just as vital as innovation. Deepavali gave us a space to celebrate together.
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