Many Tufts students love going to Holi in the Spring. The festival of colors and fun is a great way to let loose from the stress of classes. But what many students don’t know about is the group behind Holi (along with other fun festivals and celebrations), Tufts Hindu Students Council. Read our interview with one of the chairs, Priyanka Dharampuriya to learn more about THSC, other events they put on during the year, and how to get involved!
Name: Priyanka Dharampuriya
Year: 2015
Major: Biology, English
Hometown: Shrewsbury, MA
So what is the Tufts Hindu Students Council?
HSC is an organization of students that practice Hinduism on campus. Everyone is welcome, and we have a small prayer service and a discussion about some aspect of Hinduism at our weekly meetings. We also do several community service and social events, including Holi, a color festival that all of campus participates in!
How did you get involved with it?
I went to a general interest meeting my freshman year, and helped with the Diwali planning committee after that.
What is the most important role you think THSC holds?
I think HSC does a great job both with promoting dialogue between students and allowing them to explore their religion. However, I think the events we put on that involve people even outside HSC–Garba, Holi, and Diwali, for example–are really important because they include everyone.
What events on campus does THSC plan?
We plan a Garba every year, which is a bit like a dance. And, as I said before, Holi and Diwali. We also have a Saraswati Puja every semester before finals (Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge) in addition to our weekly meetings.
What is your favorite thing about THSC?
I absolutely love Holi, and I really like all of the interesting things I get to do as interfaith chair–there’s a lot of dialogue with other religious student groups and it’s all very interesting.
How can someone get involved?
Just come to a meeting! We’d love to have you. Our general interest meeting is Wednesday Sept 19 at 9PM in Remis Sculpture Court!