St Joseph's College of Arts and Science celebrated the international diversity of their student body in one of the best ways possible.They held an international food festival Social Zest organised by the Sociology Association of the College, which showcased flavours from countries as distant as Afghanistan and China and as neighbourly as Sri Lanka and Tibet. The whole event was supported by the staff and students and going by the piles of vanishing food and sated expressions, it was a big success.
“We have students from 16 different nations studying here, at least three international students per class. That’s what makes studying here so culturally enhancing,” said Nikasha Kashyap, a student co-ordinator at the festival.
Many of the students came dressed in their national costumes adding a touch of colour and pageantry. The Afghan students in their flowing robes attracted a lot of patronage to their stall.
“Sadly ,we didn’t even get a taste of their delicious lamb Do Pyaza and Pilaf as it was sold out 15 minutes after they opened,” said Andrew Kelly a student volunteer.
The Bangladeshi students served Maachi Baat (rice with fish), the Sri Lankan's Kotthu made with chicken and cheese while the Mongolian and the Iranians, all colourfully clad in their national costumes, lent an added flavour to the festival.
But most Josephite events have an added dimension to their celebrations and this one was no exception.
“We are using this food festival to highlight the dangers of consuming genetically modified products and to spread awareness of vegetables like the BT bringal,” said Pooja, Samuel and Ashwin said some of the students who have done extensive research on the subject and are very well informed and passionate about the issue.
The dessert counter selling cup cakes, fudge and helpings of trifle had long queues of impatient customers lined up. Santa dressed up with bunches of balloons, magician performing tricks and musicians with their serenading guitars all added their own elements of fun to the afternoon.
“It brings students together in a warm atmosphere of cultural exchange. After all food is an intrinsic part of culture,” said Berin Lukas, faculty member. “Students who come here from countries like mainland China and Afghanistan have difficulty with language and communication at first, but since they are also hard working and highly motivated they are soon up to speed,” said Principal Fr Ambrose Pinto.
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