From India to Billings: MSU’s Cultural Showcase Fosters Connection and Understanding

Cultural Showcase at MSU Billings Highlights India’s Traditions and Diversity

Montana State University Billings is hosting a cultural showcase centered on India, highlighting its vibrant traditions, and rich history. Each year, the Office of International Studies selects a different country to focus on, organizing a series of events that include cultural programming, films, and free community activities, providing the public with an opportunity to engage with and learn about the chosen region.

MSUB students from India have had the chance to showcase various regions of their country through music, dance, singing, traditional clothing, and presentations. The final two events of the semester will take place on November 19, featuring a screening of the film I Have Found It, and on November 21, which will be dedicated to Indian Cuisine Night. The event highlights both the uniqueness of individual cultures and the shared passions that unite people, such as dance, music, and singing. In doing so, it provides the Billings community with an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the diversity within their town, with cultural groups from India, Japan, France, and others, thus fostering personal engagement and a deeper sense of community.

Abby Cook, the Associate Director of International Students at Montana State University Billings, explained that the decision to focus on India for this year's cultural showcase was influenced by the significant increase in Indian students at the university. She also emphasized that the local community plays a crucial role in making the event possible, as it serves as a vibrant celebration of culture and diversity, bringing the community together. Moreover, regular attendees have shown strong appreciation for the event, which is volunteer-driven and budget-conscious, featuring homegrown performances rather than external performers from India. Therefore, managing expectations has been key to its success.

The themed semester program began in 2021 to help students feel more connected to different cultures and reduce feelings of isolation. During the pandemic, travel restrictions and limited student arrivals led the university to explore ways of bringing diverse cultures to both MSU Billings and the Billings community. This program is primarily funded by a grant from the Department of Education. Over a dozen international students at Montana State University Billings are from India. Sophomores Mansi Luthra and Noor Deep Kaur, both from the northern Indian state of Punjab, have played a key role in organizing events throughout the semester. They shared that this year has provided them with an opportunity to reconnect with their cultural roots while sharing their heritage with the local community in Billings.

Events like these have enriched the students' lives, helping them feel connected and valued. They shared that their first year was particularly challenging, as they had to adapt to new technologies while experiencing loneliness and homesickness. However, over time, they found comfort in their shared heritage and developed a sense of community through their involvement in the Indian student group. This support helped them navigate academic challenges and form lasting friendships, making Billings feel like home.

The students expressed appreciation for how the local community embraces Indian culture, noting that the compliments they receive when performing, singing, and wearing traditional outfits brighten their days and nights. Although explaining certain cultural practices to those unfamiliar with them can be challenging, the students found it rewarding to introduce others to the differences in their traditions, often sparking meaningful conversations. As a result, the event provided an opportunity to learn about each other's cultures and grow as a community, which the students identified as one of the best aspects of the multicultural club and the efforts of the International Office.

The semester has helped build a connection between international students and the broader Billings community, reminding everyone that, despite their differences, they share many similarities. For the students involved, the event has not only served as a cultural showcase but also as a way to alleviate the isolation often experienced by international students. The cultural showcase at Montana State University Billings has effectively spotlighted India’s traditions while building connections between international students and the local community.

Editor's Note:

Students living far from home often experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. The local community needs to create a supportive environment, and Montana State University Billings' cultural showcase plays a key role in this. These events offer a special chance to celebrate and learn about different cultures, helping foster understanding and appreciation. Not only do they enrich the lives of international students, but they also strengthen the bond within the local community. By sharing traditions, music, and food, such events help bridge cultural gaps and remind us that, despite our differences, we all share common interests and values.

Skoobuzz appreciates this initiative and believes that when communities come together to celebrate diversity, they create stronger, more inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and connected.