Dear Friends, 

Warm greetings! We wish you and those near and dear to you a joyous Diwali this year as we find new and meaningful ways to come together and celebrate this beautiful tradition.

This semester at Emory has been a time of collective renewal and exploration. After a few mostly remote semesters, we took the plunge back into in-person activity on campus. The buzz of conversation and learning that once filled the campus is back, and while we are still finding our footing in this new time, Emory’s Hindu community has adapted to the change in brilliant ways.

The Hindu Students Association began the semester with a beautiful Ganesh Chaturthi Puja, which was followed by a spectacular Navaratri Puja and Garba in October. As you might expect, Diwali celebrations are in full swing across campus, ranging from events in the residence halls to Cannon Chapel to the Business School. This year’s festivities will include rangoli, worship, dance, music, and most importantly a space to celebrate the joy of being together. 

Relatedly, the Emory Office of Spiritual and Religious Life (OSRL) began the new year with a new pre-Orientation program, "Welcoming Interfaith and Spiritual Exploration (WISE)." Incoming Emory first-years had the opportunity to engage in fun and meaningful interfaith education, dialogue, and community visits, one site being the Hindu Temple of Atlanta. In addition, OSRL began the exciting process of planning Emory’s first Interfaith Center, to open in December 2022. These efforts include shaping the space so that it reflects and celebrates the diversity of faiths on campus and beyond. From Murtis to musical instruments, we hope to create an uplifting environment for our Hindu and multifaith communities. As Giving Tuesday approaches on November 30, we would be grateful for your support of these efforts as well as your continued support for Hindu Life on campus. 

This Diwali, I’m reminded of a prayer, recited by many, in which there is the line, “tejasvināvadhītam astu,” or “May our learning together shine brightly.” I hope this Diwali season brings us together in the spirit of learning and may the light of learning shine brighter for us all with each day.

Warmly,
Shweta

Brahmacharini Shweta Chaitanya
Hindu Chaplain
Emory University Office of Spiritual and Religious Life