Pictured above: From left, Holcombe​​ Global Series program coordinator Tessa Constant stands with speakers Belle Joy, Rashi Ghosh and Vidushi Sinha after the presentation. | Photo by Keghan Kavanaugh

By Keghan Kavanaugh
University of Arkansas Student

India is a land of rich culture and tradition. Rooted in history, Indians balance ancient cultural traditions and modern sensibilities.

Students Rashi Ghosh, Vidushi Sinha and Belle Joy presented a talk about their culture Tuesday, Sept. 5, for the inaugural Holcombe Global Series of the year.

“For the first event of the year, the turnout was incredible and I would love to see it continue to grow,” said Ghosh.

The presentation included cuisine native to India, Attendees tasted halwa, a rice powder pudding dessert and chicken biryani which is a highly seasoned baked rice chicken dinner.

Attendees got a chance to sample various delicious Indian dishes

While enjoying the food, attendees conversed got to learn more about the Indian subcontinent. For example, India is a country of approximately 1.3 billion people who practice eight official religions including Islam, Christianity, Buddhism and Hinduism. Residents speak twenty-two recognized languages, including English, Hindi, Gujarati, Kannada and Bengali.

Mohammad Omar Akhtar and Dania Abdin stand beside a number of traditional Indian foods that were served.

Bollywood is well-established entertainment center that churns out box office theater hits and music. Indian industry is also booming with different styles for different generations. During the meal, attendees got to hear Indian songs of different genres including pop, traditional and rock.

The Global Series at Holcombe next explores Tunisia. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend from 8-9 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 26.

Email program coordinator Tessa Constant at constant@uark.edu for more information about the Holcombe Global Series.