More than 450 people gathered to celebrate the Indians in Korea’s Diwali celebration at Catholic University on Oct. 23.

Indians in Korea (IIK) volunteers welcomed guests wearing tilaka (a mark worn on the forehead) ― a traditional welcome for guests in India.

In her welcoming speech, dean of international affairs at Catholic University professor Kim Kyung-ja, talked about the hospitality of Indian culture, and said she expected a stronger relationship between India and Korea through cultural and educational exchanges.

At the beginning the message of Diwali was given by the small kids by chanting the mantra in Sanskrit and explaining the meaning in English.

The festival, known as the “Festival of Lights,” is an important festival in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other Asian countries celebrating the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. All over India and the world it is enthusiastically enjoyed by people of every religion.

The cultural performances included regional dances from Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra and Bengal, as well as Bollywood dances, comedy skits on Ramayana. Children’s performances included fancy dress shows and dancing to Bollywood songs.

The Indian Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister to Korea Jeeva K Sagar attended with his wife, Srilatha Sagar who lit the lamp for Diwali with her bright smile.

The Marthi traditional dance was a particular hit with the audience, who insisted on an encore.

There was also an audience quiz with the prizes from Indian famous restaurants, a performance by the Korean Jazz Association and hip-hop dancing.

The Punjabi Bhangra dance group the audience to their feet and taught them some easy steps. The dancing continued with a DJ.

Guests were treated to a mouth-watering Indian buffet by restaurant “Namaste,” before the Diwali crackers were burst. It was like little India inside Korea made everyone nostalgic. Some people even met childhood friends after 10 years apart.

IIK started in 2002 and helps Indians coming to Korea connect with each other as soon as they arrive. Its more than 2,000 members help each other solving problems by sharing information on areas such as finances, employment, university admission and Indian food shops. 

By Imtiaz Ali

S. Imtiaz Ali is from India and has been in Korea since 2004. He is head of IIK promotion team and can be contacted at skimtiazali@gmail.com. ― Ed.