Celebrate Diwali: the Festival of Lights!
In this blog post, we will be focusing on a few fun activities to do at home to both learn about and celebrate with your children about Diwali!
Diwali is the five day festival of lights celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world. It is a festival of new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. It’s a time when families will gather together, light candles or lamps called Diyas, enjoy lots of sweets, and exchange gifts. This year, Diwali will be held on November 14th.
Since Diya are such an important part of Diwali, it’s only fitting that the first activity is a tutorial on how to make them at home! Try this simple video tutorial and then let us know how yours turned out in the comments below!
Food is an important part of every cultural celebration, and Diwali is no exception! Sweet treats are especially important during Diwali, as they are traditionally given as gifts to friends and family during the second day of the festival. Try making some of the delicious, quick, and easy recipes found at Madhu’s Everyday Indian blog here!
Curious Cuisinere also has some excellent recipes found here, but they are a little more involved. They are delicious nonetheless!
P is for Poppadoms by Kabir Sehgal & Surishtha Sehgal
This fun and unique alphabet picture book will take readers on an exciting journey to discover the people, places, holidays, language, and lifestyle of India! This title is perfect for anyone looking to explore a new culture.
Shubh Diwali! by Chitra Soundar & Charlene Chua
In this delightful and colorful picture book, Diwali has arrived! Rangoli art decorates the floor and strings of flowers hang around the doors. Now it’s time to ring the bells, light the lamps, and welcome the new year with family and friends.
Binny Diwali by Thrity Umrigar & Nidhi Chanani
Binny has the exciting opportunity to talk to her class about her favorite holiday – Diwali! She’s happy and nervous but struggles to find just the right words. After taking a deep breath, she tells her classmates about the fireworks, pedas and jalebis, and the beautiful candlelight of diyas!
