Indian Students In Otago Put Desi Twist On TV Show Friends

The University of Otago’s Indian Students’ Association (ISA) has bagged the coveted Cultural Society of the Year 2024 award, an accolade that cements their reputation as trailblazers in cultural engagement and inclusivity on campus. Founded in 2005, the ISA has grown into a vibrant cultural hub, uniting students and the broader Ōtepoti community with a blend of tradition, creativity, and contemporary flair.

A Year of Milestones

With a 17-member committee leading over 200 active members, ISA has plannesd a dynamic slate of events, from Holi celebrations and Bollywood nights to their grand Dosti 2024 Cultural Night. The committee’s efforts weren’t just about hosting events; they built a sense of belonging, bringing diverse students together through food festivals, collaborative balls, and quirky cultural productions like their Friends-inspired skit.

Standing Out in the Crowd

The award, presented at the annual Blues and Golds Awards, was no easy feat. Competing with 33 other cultural societies, ISA’s success stems from its innovative approach. Their ISA Na Milegi Dobara trilogy, featuring an Amazing Race, quiz nights, and movie screenings, exemplified their knack for blending Indian heritage with Kiwi student life. Meanwhile, the inaugural Multicultural Ball, co-hosted with five other cultural associations, showcased their commitment to unity.

Dosti 2024, ISA Cultural Night/Photo: Supplied

A Student-Led Labour of Love

At the heart of their victory was Dosti 2024 Cultural Night, a celebration of Indian and Kiwi identities woven into a seamless narrative. The production reimagined Friends characters with an Indian-Dunedin twist, resonating with the audience through humour, cultural references, and relatable student experiences. One memorable scene had Jay, inspired by Joey Tribbiani, sipping a bottle of Frooti in a dramatic slow-motion style reminiscent of Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, declaring, “You don’t choose the Frooti life, the Frooti life chooses you.” The humour, coupled with heartfelt dialogues about embracing one’s cultural identity, created a profound connection with the audience.

Funding the Vision

The committee’s ability to secure grants, such as those from the Dunedin City Council and the Otago Community Trust, ensured high-quality productions that reflected their cultural pride. These funds supported everything from lighting to advertising, amplifying the impact of their events.

Beyond the Award

This isn’t ISA’s first taste of glory; they previously won the same award in 2019 for their community-driven initiatives. However, 2024 marked a new chapter in their journey, with a focus on innovation, inclusivity, and cultural immersion.

Holi 2024, ISA Committee/Photo: Supplied

For ISA, this win is more than just a trophy—it’s a beacon for the Indian student community at Otago. As they pass the baton to next year’s committee, one thing is certain: ISA’s legacy of bridging cultures and creating unforgettable experiences is here to stay.