Diwali Celebration 2026

A lecture on the emergence of Śiva devotional literature in premodern South India anchors an evening of cultural programming for Diwali at Tamiami Hall. Presented Friday, November 6 by FIU’s Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs, the program combines scholarship with a lighting ceremony, Indian food and a classical dance performance. Dr. Gil Ben-Herut examines a period of rapid change in 12th-century Kannada literature associated with the growth of devotional traditions centered on Śiva. Drawing on translated works by the prolific writer Harihara, the talk considers how new themes, poetic forms and audiences reshaped an established literary culture. The evening continues with Diwali traditions and performances celebrating the Festival of Lights.