Choosing to study MBBS abroad is a life-changing decision for Indian students. While academic quality and affordability are key factors, cultural comfort plays a crucial role in ensuring students adjust smoothly to their new environment. Georgia has become a popular medical education hub due to its globally recognized universities, affordable fees, and safe environment. But beyond academics, Indian students are keen to know: Will they be able to stay connected with their culture?
The answer is yes. Indian students in Georgia not only focus on their medical education but also actively engage in cultural activities and festivals. Universities, student associations, and local communities create platforms where Indian traditions are celebrated with equal enthusiasm. This cultural integration makes life more meaningful and helps students balance academics with emotional well-being.
This article explores in detail how Indian MBBS students in Georgia celebrate festivals, engage in cultural activities, and maintain their identity while studying abroad.
Studying MBBS in a foreign country brings many challenges such as homesickness, cultural differences, and academic pressure. Celebrating festivals and cultural events provides students with:
Emotional Connection – A sense of home away from home.
Stress Relief – Cultural celebrations act as breaks from rigorous medical schedules.
Community Bonding – Students form friendships beyond academic interactions.
Cross-Cultural Exchange – Sharing Indian traditions with Georgian and other international students.
Preservation of Identity – Students maintain a connection to their roots while adapting to a global lifestyle.
Indian students in Georgia celebrate almost all major cultural and religious festivals. These events are often organized by Indian student unions, embassies, or groups of students in collaboration with universities.
Diwali is one of the most celebrated Indian festivals in Georgia among MBBS students.
Hostels and campus halls are decorated with lights, candles, and colorful rangolis.
Students dress in traditional outfits, share sweets, and organize cultural performances.
Firecrackers are limited due to safety rules, but symbolic celebrations take place with lamps and diyas.
Holi is celebrated with the same energy as in India.
Students gather in open university spaces or community grounds.
Organic colors, music, and dance make the day vibrant.
It becomes a multicultural event as Georgian and international students often join in.
Indian Independence Day is observed with flag hoisting ceremonies, speeches, and cultural performances.
The Indian Embassy in Georgia often organizes official events where students participate.
Patriotic songs, dance programs, and skits showcase Indian heritage.
Similar to Independence Day, Republic Day is marked with cultural programs.
Students recite poems, perform patriotic songs, and organize quiz competitions on Indian history.
Navratri is celebrated with Garba and Dandiya nights, especially among Gujarati and North Indian student groups.
Students wear traditional attire, play Garba music, and create a festive atmosphere.
South Indian students bring their cultural flavors by celebrating Onam and Pongal.
Traditional food like sambar, rice, and payasam is prepared.
Cultural performances such as traditional dance and songs highlight the rich diversity of Indian students.
Indian Muslim students celebrate Eid with prayers, community gatherings, and feasts.
Biryani and sweets are often shared among hostel mates and friends.
Although primarily Western festivals, Indian students join local celebrations.
Christmas and New Year in Georgia are marked with parties, decorations, and cultural integration.
Beyond festivals, MBBS students in Georgia engage in regular cultural and extracurricular activities that strengthen community bonds.
At the beginning of each academic year, senior students organize fresher’s events for newcomers.
Talent shows, dance, singing, and fashion walks are part of these events.
Farewell parties for final-year students are also celebrated with performances and emotional gatherings.
Many universities host annual cultural fests where Indian students showcase classical dance, Bollywood songs, and traditional drama.
Competitions like debate, essay writing, and talent hunts make it an engaging platform.
Cricket and football tournaments are very popular among Indian students.
Friendly matches are organized between different batches or between Indian and Georgian students.
Indian food stalls are set up during cultural events.
Students and local communities enjoy Indian delicacies like samosa, dosa, biryani, and jalebi.
Indian students also organize International Yoga Day (21st June) activities.
Such events promote wellness and showcase India’s global contribution to health and lifestyle.
The Indian Embassy in Georgia and Indian student associations play a significant role in promoting cultural activities.
They sponsor events such as Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations.
Provide support for organizing festivals like Diwali and Holi.
Help students connect with the Indian community living in Georgia.
Encourage cross-cultural exchange with Georgian locals and international peers.
Medical universities in Georgia are supportive of cultural diversity. They:
Provide auditoriums and halls for student-organized events.
Allow hostels to be decorated during major festivals.
Encourage cultural exchange by including Indian festivals in annual multicultural events.
Invite faculty and students from other countries to join celebrations.
Social Networking – Builds long-lasting friendships.
Stress Management – Reduces exam anxiety and homesickness.
Confidence Building – Performing on stage or leading events enhances leadership skills.
Global Exposure – Sharing Indian traditions helps students integrate into international communities.
Balanced Lifestyle – Academics remain a priority, but cultural activities create a healthy balance.
While celebrations are vibrant, students face certain challenges:
Budget Constraints – Organizing large events requires funds.
Time Limitations – MBBS schedules are rigorous, making it hard to plan big celebrations.
Permission Issues – Universities have certain rules regarding late-night or loud events.
Logistics – Sourcing Indian food, traditional costumes, or decorations can sometimes be difficult in Georgia.
Despite these challenges, students creatively find solutions by pooling resources, working in groups, and collaborating with embassies.
Join Indian Student Associations – They are the primary organizers of cultural events.
Carry Traditional Outfits – Essential for Diwali, Garba nights, or cultural shows.
Contribute Actively – Whether it’s dancing, singing, or helping with event organization.
Use Social Media – Stay updated about upcoming cultural activities.
Balance Studies and Fun – Participate in cultural activities without compromising academics.
| Month | Event/Festival | Type of Celebration |
|---|---|---|
| January | Republic Day | Flag hoisting, cultural shows |
| March | Holi | Colors, music, dance |
| June | International Yoga Day | Yoga workshops, wellness programs |
| August | Independence Day | Flag hoisting, patriotic songs |
| September | Onam & Ganesh Chaturthi | Cultural food fest, rituals |
| October | Navratri | Garba nights, dandiya |
| November | Diwali | Lights, sweets, cultural fest |
| December | Christmas & New Year | Multicultural celebrations |
The journey of studying MBBS in Georgia is not just about academic excellence but also about cultural preservation and celebration. Indian students actively engage in festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Independence Day, and Navratri, while also organizing cultural fests, sports events, and food festivals.
These activities provide emotional comfort, create strong community bonds, and help students maintain their identity while adapting to global education. With the support of universities, the Indian Embassy, and student associations, Indian MBBS students in Georgia never feel away from their roots.
In essence, pursuing MBBS in Georgia allows students to experience the best of both worlds – high-quality medical education alongside a vibrant cultural life that keeps them connected to India.