St John's hosted this year’s Diwali celebrations on 29th October with an International Hall dinner organised by third-year medic Ishta Sharma.

College members and their guests were joined by members of the Oxford India Society, and everyone enjoyed a three-course menu of Indian specialities in candle-lit surroundings. An introductory speech by Philip Maini, Professorial Fellow and Tutor for Ethnic Minorities, was followed by an excellent address on Diwali traditions from Ishta and a warm welcome from the President, Professor Maggie Snowling. Traditional dress contributed to the colour of the evening, which was made memorable by an impromptu explanation of the Indian sweetmeats from Ishta.

Afterwards, over 100 guests gathered in Front Quad to light sparklers and mark the end of this special event to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Diwali 2018