The festival offered a much-needed respite for the students and provided a sense of unity and cultural pride during a difficult time
Indian students studying medicine in war-torn Ukraine found solace in celebrating the Ganapati festival amidst the ongoing conflict. The students, residing in a hostel in Uzhhorod, western Ukraine, formed a Ganesh mandal named after their hostel, Svitanok. Despite the hardships of living under the constant threat of air raid alarms, they celebrated the festival with enthusiasm, offering prayers and performing rituals over the traditional 10-day period.
Tejas Kiran Dhanashetty, a student from Pune, played a key role in organizing the event, drawing inspiration from the grand celebrations he witnessed in his hometown. The highlight of the celebration was a small replica of Pune’s famous Shaniwarwada, created by the students, which added a touch of home to their festivities.
Despite restrictions due to the war, such as avoiding large gatherings and loudspeakers, the students succeeded in reviving the spirit of Ganeshotsav in their temporary home
Though initially meant to be a private celebration, the event grew in scale, with even Ukrainian locals joining to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings. The students noted that the frequency of air raid alarms had reduced, yet the fear of war loomed over their daily lives.
Around 250-300 Indian students from Uzhhorod and beyond participated in the celebration, alongside a few students from Nepal. The students, many unfamiliar with the Ganapati festival, embraced the cultural experience, learning to prepare traditional Indian prasad and bonding over the festivities. Khushi Sharma, a student from Delhi, expressed her newfound appreciation for the festival, stating that she plans to celebrate it in the future after returning home.
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