As a global Christian university, Trinity Western welcomes students from over 90 countries who represent many cultures and perspectives. Their broad global experiences enrich the learning environment and community life at TWU.
On June 15, TWU’s Richmond campus Student Life team hosted an Indian cultural event, inviting the campus community to share in the richness of Indian cultural traditions. Hosted at TWU Richmond's Minoru location, it was an occasion to celebrate diversity and foster cross-cultural understanding through meaningful connections among students, staff, faculty, and friends of the University.
"‘Oh Bhalle Bhalle’* – That’s how we Indians love to say with open hearts and big smiles when welcoming guests with open arms and extended greetings," says Candice D Cruz, Student Life intern at TWU Richmond.
As Candice shares, “Student Life Richmond had the honour to introduce our diverse student body to an evening celebrating India and its extraordinary cultural extravaganza with a glimpse into India’s traditions.”
“This was an evening that left all our guests dazzled," she continues, recalling memorable moments. "Students showcased a series of India's colourful and diverse traditional attire through a stunning ramp walk." She lists other activities including henna decorating and "sharing a meal of delectable cuisine that brought a taste of India to our students," followed by "viewing captivating cultural performances that spread Indian warmth, vibe, and energy all around the room.”
Further event highlights included the energetic cultural music, the displaying of beautiful Indian attire and Indian art, a sampling of Masaledaar food infused with aromatic flavours and spices, and several rhythmic dance performances. As Candice describes, “Our wonderful audiences were cheering, dancing, and enjoying the performances. Their enthusiasm is what added to our presentation of what our Indian culture is all about.”
The June 15 Indian cultural festivities at TWU Richmond welcomed 170 guests, including students from both Richmond and Langley campuses, staff, faculty, and members of the community. About 40 student volunteers joined hands to make it all possible. Candice thanks all those who helped to make the evening "an outstanding success that left each of us in awe and delight, reminiscing moments we left in India; yet [these are] doors of memories we could once again visit on the night of the event.”
* "Oh Bhalle Bhalle" is a common expression in India, used mostly around the northern part of India. In particular, it is used in Punjabi language and culture. This is an expression of excitement, joy, and celebration towards whomsoever one comes across. Oh Bhalle Bhalle can mean, "How wonderful it is to meet you. What a wonderful time this is." (Candice D Cruz)
About TWU Richmond
Located in the heart of the city, TWU Richmond provides programs tailored to the urban and international audience in Richmond and Metro Vancouver. The expansive, modern spaces are designed for students to engage in TWU bachelor's degree and master's degree programs. Learn more about the programs offered at TWU Richmond.
About TWU Student Life
Student Life has something for everyone—so, no matter where you are in your walk with God, you can thrive in community, explore a unique way to serve, and get much more out of TWU than a degree. Learn more about TWU Student Life.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university. We are dedicated to equipping students to discover meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. Drawing upon the riches of the Christian tradition, seeking to unite faith and reason through teaching and scholarship, Trinity Western University is a degree-granting research institution offering liberal arts and sciences as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has four locations in Canada: Langley, Richmond-Lansdowne, Richmond-Minoru, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn.
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