Spring Colours and Indian Culture

The Holi Festival, a celebration of spring, sunlight and Indian culture, was held at the atrium of the HSE University building on Pokrovsky Bulvar. Students and teachers immersed themselves in the atmosphere of one of the most vibrant Indian holidays, trying on traditional saris, participating in an quiz, and enjoying live performances.

The cultural programme began after a welcoming speech by the organisers. Guests were treated to Bollywood-style dancing, tabla playing, and vocal performances dedicated to the arrival of spring and the triumph of light and colour over darkness. Workshops were held all over the atrium where participants could learn Bollywood dancing, play carrom, try on saris with help from volunteers, make mehndi decorations, and sample Indian cuisine.

The Holi Festival was the latest incarnation of the university's goal to develop intercultural communication. Kirill Kisel, Director for Internationalisation at HSE University, noted in his welcoming speech that there are currently more than 6,000 international students from about 140 countries at HSE University, and that each of them brings a part of their culture with them. ‘Every year, about 2,000 foreign citizens from different countries come to HSE University, ’ he said. ‘Each student represents their country, its history, and traditions. The diversity of cultures at the university gives an opportunity for international students to share a part of their culture, and for Russian students to get to know it. All this together creates a unique community of students united not only by their studies, but also by mutual respect and recognition.’

Madhur Kankana Roy, Director of the Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre of the Indian Embassy in Moscow, said that the event, which was being held at HSE University for the second time, brought representatives of different cultures together thanks to its colourful and positive atmosphere. She also invited guests to enjoy the concert programme, which included dancing and musical performances, and to feel the spirit of India with its vibrant dances, music, costumes, and cuisine.

Students who attended the festival shared their impressions. Maria Ashaeva, first-year student at the Faculty of Law, learned about the event from the volunteer centre’s Telegram channel. ‘Initially, we wanted to participate as volunteers, but in the end we decided to just enjoy the occasion. We had no classes, the weather was good, and everything worked out. The atmosphere was friendly, we were immediately invited to participate, and we enjoyed everything,’ shared Maria.

Her classmate Liza Zlatina admitted that she does not often participate in such events, but that this one turned out to be particularly interesting. ‘We were given badges with our names on them and immediately wanted to know how they can be written and read in Hindi. Such details make you feel involved. Everything is bright here: the outfits, the decor, the music, and it's engaging,’ said Liza.

Maria Malinina, first-year student at the Faculty of Law, was particularly impressed by the sari draping workshop. ‘I wanted to try it. It's always nice when you’re not just watching but participating. I try to keep up with major student events at HSE University—it's a good way to take your mind of things and learn something new,’ said Maria.

The festival ended with a costume contest: the participants talked about their outfits and sources of inspiration, and the winners received prizes for the most spectacular presentation. The event was followed by a DJ set. The organisers said that events like this are open to anyone who wants to have an unforgettable concert experience, learn more about Indian culture, and try their hand at Bollywood dancing, sari draping, and mehndi decoration.