INL Celebrates Diwali: A Festival of Lights and Cultural Exchange

INL recently came alive with vibrant colours, music, and flavours as the Indian community hosted a memorable Diwali celebration. Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance—values that resonate deeply within the world of science and innovation.

The colourful festivities reflected this spirit, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural exchange. The event was warmly received by INLers, offering an opportunity to learn more about Indian traditions while allowing the community to showcase its talents, heritage, and culinary delicacies, enriching INL’s cultural fabric.

The celebration began with welcome notes by Prof. Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, INL Director-General, and His Excellency Mr. Puneet R. Kundal, Ambassador of India to Portugal, who highlighted the importance of cultural diversity and collaboration.

The program featured inspiring performances by members of the Indian INL community, including Indian poetry by Dr. Subhajit Roy, reciting the famous poem “Where the mind is without fear” by Rabindranath Tagore who encourages a nation towards an awakening state of true freedom, where knowledge is free, people are united, and reason prevails. The programme continued with storytelling of the origins of this festival, by Dr. Sushmitha Veeralingam, followed by a Bollywood dance medley by Indian children, singing by Dr. Bejoys Jacob and Dr. Hitesh Pedaprolu, and sitar maestro Pandit Abhishek Adhikary, accompanied by Ibram Kashi, for an endearing Hindustani classical sitar and tabla performance.

Prior to the event, the Ambassador’s visit included a tour of INL’s research facilities, offering a glimpse into areas where Indian scientists contribute significantly, from Energy and Environment, Life Sciences to ICT, strengthening ties with India and within INL itself. Mr. Kundal made a special request to address the Indian community, gathering more than 30 INLers to highlight the importance of being proud of their culture, their heritage, and India’s continuous growth.

The evening continued in the lobby with a gallery exhibition of renowned Indian Scientists, a Rangoli Presentation, Henna Hand-Painting, and Traditional Indian Feast.

INL wishes everyone a Happy Diwali and thanks everyone involved for making this celebration such a remarkable success.