SASO Hosts Desi Night

Desi night festivities! Photo by Hannah Rose Bruentrup.

The South Asian Student Organization (SASO) hosted its annual Desi Night on November 2nd. The Bollywood themed event was tucked into the Kirby rafters. Balloons, glow sticks and glitter created a fun and radiant atmosphere. Students, professors, and community members crowded in to experience the performers and taste the food, which was catered by a local restaurant named India Palace.

The performances by UMD students included Bollywood-inspired dances, singing, and a surprise dance medley by the SASO executive board. Ramit Buggeinani, the host of the evening and UMD student, highlighted his excitement to see the performances. “They're going to be lit,” said Buggeinani. 

Henna art at Desi night. Photo by Hannah Rose Bruentrup.

The catering consisted of popular Indian staples. Chana masala and Samosas were gone in the blink of an eye. The Malai Kofta was the surprise culinary hit of the evening. Seconds were offered and seconds were had. Guests flocked to the buffet table until the gravy was all that was left. UMD sophomore Aman Verma is an international student from Delhi, India. His reason for coming was “to experience home” emphasizing that he was excited “for the performances and the food.” 

After the performances and dinner, guests hit the dance floor. Bollywood classics and new hits were blasted through the speakers as dance circles formed and students showed off their moves. “So much [went into the event]...” SASO president, Haley Patel says, “It was really just a fun time [preparing] and I think people are really enjoying the event.” 

For those interested in attending future SASO events, their Instagram is @umdsaso and their office in the multicultural center is open to all. Patel encourages students to come with questions. “We are not as scary as you think,” she laughs, “We are open and welcoming [to] everybody…We are here for you, We are here for the students.”