Bollywood Flair on Campus Student Members of the Buddy Program Bring Bollywood to Aalen University
“Lights, Camera, Bollywood”: Under this motto, Aalen University hosted a Bollywood evening—a colorful event filled with dance, music, and plenty of good cheer. Photo: © Aalen University | Gulchin Ibrahimli
Bollywood glamour, vibrant colors, and captivating dance performances recently transformed the auditorium of Aalen University into a festive stage full of international encounters. The special gala showcased impressively how lively and inspiring the exchange within the “Buddy Program” truly is.
“Lights, Camera, Bollywood”
Cultural diversity and intercultural exchange at Aalen University are celebrated not only in lecture halls but also across campus—most recently at a glamorous Bollywood gala organized by the Buddy Program, attended by around 80 participants. The Buddy Program of the ISA association (International Society Aalen e.V.), brings together German and international students. Its goal is to support international students in finding their way around the university and the city of Aalen. The recent event, themed “Lights, Camera, Bollywood,” clearly demonstrated that fun, intercultural exchange, and international friendship are equally central to the program’s mission.
Colourful Saris
From the moment attendees entered the festively decorated auditorium, it was clear that the evening would be an unforgettable experience. The hall glowed with golden light, complemented by the sparkle of colourful saris and traditional Indian attire. Many guests enthusiastically embraced the dress code of “Bollywood Glamour or traditional clothing.” Some Indian students even gifted their German buddies saris and showed them how to properly drape this traditional, unstitched wrap skirt.
Talent Show
A spontaneous highlight of the evening was a fashion show, where students presented their impressive costumes or traditional clothing from their home countries. The cultural talent show that followed was equally lively and captivating: South Asian dances, performed solo or in groups, brought the hall to life, while singers delivered performances reminiscent of famous Bollywood stars. From belly dancing and guitar music to other international performances, the event offered an impressive, culturally diverse mix that delighted all attendees.
International Buffet
The international theme continued with a large buffet, featuring delicacies from around the world, all prepared by students, filling the auditorium with enticing aromas. The evening continued with group dancing to Bollywood rhythms, guided by the many enthusiastic South Asian students who now enrich daily life and campus culture at Aalen University.
A Truly Passionate Commitment
“Buddy of the Year” Samantha Sada, who studies Physician Assistant at the university, encouraged other German students to join the Buddy Program: “It’s like traveling the world without leaving Aalen: we share food, stories, and traditions—and suddenly, diversity feels completely natural. For me, the Buddy Program is not just volunteer work, it’s a true passion. It broadens our horizons and connects people in a wonderful way.”
Become Part of the Buddy Community
“Students at Aalen University can join the diverse Buddy community again next semester and support international students in their everyday lives,” emphasizes Hasmik Kalashyan, the student coordinator of the Buddy Program. More impressions of the Bollywood gala and the Buddy Program can be found on the Instagram channel @aalen_isn. Applications for the Buddy Program are accepted via buddy@hs-aalen.de.