Prince George joined in the celebration of Diwali Saturday night.

Prince George, B.C. – The entertainment and food were plentiful Saturday night as the College of New Caledonia’s Students’ Union and International Education Department hosted a Diwali party.

What is Diwali?  Well, it has varied interpretations and mythology attached to it depending upon the religion, just as many religious beliefs do.  However, as CNC’s India Liaison Arvinder Billing explains, no matter whether you are Hindu, Sikh, Muslim or any other religion found in India, Diwali is all about light and a celebration of good over evil.  It transcends religion and people throughout India celebrate Diwali wholeheartedly.

This is the 4^th year that CNC’s Intarnational students have put together such a party and the first one for CNC President Henry Reiser since his arrival.  Asked about its significance to the college he says “it’s really important that we are able to share international celebrations with the community of Prince George.  Our international students, we have 350 of them, all bring something unique from their homelands to the institution and to Prince George.”

Reiser says “Diwali in India is like Christmas is in Canada and it transcends all religions.   Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians all celebrate Diwali like we in Canada celebrate Christman, so it’s a very big event.”

And a big event it was, with a sold out auditorium filled with people dressed in their best attire, several favorite Indian dishes, entertainment, an exchange of gifts between family members, dancing and all capped off with a fireworks display.