Bareilly: The Savitri Government Women’s Hostel of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University organised a vibrant Deepotsav celebration ahead of Diwali, bringing together students for an evening of traditional rituals, cultural performances and festive cheer.
The programme was organised under the patronage of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Anil Kumar Rai and the guidance of hostel warden Dr Jyoti Pandey. It showcased India’s rich cultural heritage and diversity through a series of activities.
The celebrations began with prayers and aarti dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. Students collectively prayed for peace, prosperity and happiness for the university community, their families and society. Earthen lamps were then lit across the hostel premises, illuminating the campus. Students also celebrated with fireworks and exchanged Diwali greetings.
A major attraction was the cultural programme, featuring colourful dance performances based on the folk traditions of different Indian states. The presentations highlighted the country’s cultural diversity, national unity and harmony. Students also participated in a friendly ramp walk alongside their roommates, adding to the festive spirit.
In his message, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Anil Kumar Rai said Diwali symbolises the journey from ignorance to knowledge, despair to hope and darkness to light. He observed that such celebrations promote social harmony, collective participation, cultural awareness and mutual cooperation among students. He added that universities play an important role not only in academic development but also in shaping students’ personalities and nurturing Indian cultural values. He extended Diwali greetings and wished the students a bright future.
Registrar Mahendra Kumar Singh, Finance Officer Mahim Chand and Controller of Examinations Dr Anil Kumar Yadav also conveyed their festive wishes to the hostel residents.

Dr Jyoti Pandey, hostel warden and university cultural coordinator, said the celebration was organised before the Diwali vacation, as students would be leaving for their respective homes. The initiative allowed everyone to celebrate together as one family before the holidays.
She said the hostel was more than just a residential facility, serving as an extended family for students from different regions and cultural backgrounds. Such events help foster mutual affection, unity, leadership and a sense of collective responsibility.
Dr Pandey also urged students to celebrate Diwali safely, maintain cleanliness and remain environmentally conscious, emphasising that the true spirit of the festival lies in spreading happiness and light in the lives of others.
Hostel staff members Meena Pandey, Neelakshi and Rakhi contributed to the successful organisation of the event.
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