Celebrating South Asian Heritage in Happy Valley
Penn State's South Asian Student Association — fostering community, culture, and connection since 1960.
Who We Are
Our Mission
The South Asian Student Association (SASA) at Penn State fosters an environment that allows students of South Asian heritage to share and promote their culture. We bring together the diverse communities of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives to celebrate our shared heritage and unique traditions.
Upcoming Events
See what's coming up next
Social EventsMon, August 31, 2026
SASA Week
SASA'S BIGGEST week! This is the week where we give you a taste of what being a part of our family is like for the year. We have lots of events planned, almost every day for one week! Stay tuned for more details...
GBMsTue, September 1, 2026
Osmond 117
SASA GBM
Our annual SASA General Body Meeting! come find out what we have planned this year and everything SASA. You will also meet fellow south asian students, our board, and other South Asian organizations on campus. We also may have a surprise or two for our members and attendees!
Cultural EventsFri, September 25, 2026
Alumni Hall
Navratri
Navratri is a major Hindu festival that lasts nine nights and celebrates the divine feminine, especially the goddess Durga and her different forms. The word “Navratri” comes from Sanskrit: nava means “nine” and ratri means “nights.” During Navratri, people honor the goddess as a symbol of strength, protection, courage, wisdom, and victory of good over evil. Many devotees fast, pray, visit temples, decorate homes, and take part in cultural celebrations. One of the best-known parts of Navratri is the music and dance, especially Garba and Dandiya Raas, which are very popular in Gujarat and among Indian communities around the world. People often dress in colorful traditional clothing and dance in circles with sticks or clapping rhythms. Navratri ends with celebrations such as Dussehra/Vijayadashami, which marks the triumph of good over evil, often connected with Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura or Rama’s victory over Ravana, depending on the region.
Become a Part of Our Community
Whether you're South Asian or simply interested in learning about South Asian culture, SASA welcomes everyone. Join us for events, make lifelong friends, and celebrate diversity.