The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) witnessed the glow of 2,100 earthen lamps and the joyous chants of “Jai Shri Ram” and “Har Har Mahadev” as Hindu students celebrated Deepawali for the very first time in the institution’s 104-year history. The celebration, held on October 19 at the Non-Resident Student Center (NRSC), symbolised a powerful moment of inclusivity, faith, and cultural expression.
According to media reports, the event saw enthusiastic participation from Hindu students who lit 2,100 diyas, shared 2,100 kilograms of sweets, and artistically arranged the lamps to form the sacred phrase “Jai Shri Ram.” The design also featured the words “AMU” and a symbolic lamp to mark the festival of lights. Fireworks illuminated the night sky, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
The initiative was spearheaded by Akhil Kaushal, a student from the Department of Social Sciences and Mass Communication, who had sought and obtained prior permission from the university administration to organise the celebration. Preparations began early in the morning, with students actively participating in decorating the venue, arranging lamps, and distributing sweets among attendees.
Proctor Professor M. Wasim Ali was present at the event, sharing sweets with students and ensuring that the celebration was conducted peacefully and in good spirit. To maintain security and order, police personnel from two local stations were deployed at the venue, and outsiders were not permitted entry.
“This is a momentous day for all of us,” said Akhil Kaushal, who also mentioned that Hindu students had earlier received permission to celebrate Holi on campus — an event that took place peacefully and paved the way for this Deepawali celebration. “We wanted to express our faith with respect and inclusivity, and the university administration’s support made this possible,” Kaushal added.
Professor Wasim Ali hailed the celebration as a first in AMU’s history, emphasising that it was conducted “in a peaceful and disciplined manner.”
