Last Saturday marked Harvard’s first-ever South Asian Convocation, co-hosted by the Mittal Institute and the South Asian Student Association (SAA). This unique celebration of the South Asian community at Harvard attracted over 300 undergraduate and graduate students, as well as affiliates and faculty members.
The evening at Harvard Epworth Church kicked off with class pictures of all four undergraduate classes and graduate students before speeches and performances began.
As the first of two speakers (left photo below), Hitesh Hathi, Executive Director of the Mittal Institute, reflected on how the number of South Asian students has increased tremendously since he was a graduate student at Harvard in the 90s. He recalled that “there used to be so few that we would stop and greet each other on campus.” But that is no longer the case. Looking out into the large, diverse body of South Asian Harvardians today, he added, “this is a historic moment for us. Each of you can decide what relationship you want with South Asia, and together, we can think about what kind of campus community we want to be.”
Representing South Asian alumni, Asmer A. Safi ’24 spoke second (right photo below), encouraging students not to lose sight of their personal values as they continue their educational and career paths.
Next, members of more than 10 South Asian student organizations representing a wide range of interest groups took the stage. Speakers briefly introduced their group to the attendees, particularly freshman students. Their speeches were followed by resounding applause, which showcased how many students are already involved in one or more South Asian student organizations.
The festivities continued with performances of three cultural student associations: Harvard Undergraduate Bhangra, Harvard Undergraduate Deepam, and the South Asian Music Association at Harvard. The pews of the packed Epworth Church were filled with students and others in their most festive attire.
The night culminated in a dinner featuring food from various parts of South Asia, including momos, samosas, chotpoti, chicken tikka, rice, and yellow dal.
This historic gathering truly marked a new chapter for the South Asian community at Harvard!
Text and Photos by Bettina Wyler, Mittal Institute Communications Manager