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Celebrating Diwali: A Festival of Lights, Sweet Treats, and Cultural Exploration

On the 7th of November, students gathered at lunchtime for an immersive event celebrating Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.

Diwali, celebrated by over a billion people worldwide and many here in Plymouth. It is a vibrant festival that takes place between October 29th and November 3rd this year. Marking the triumph of light over darkness, Diwali symbolises new beginnings, the victory of good over evil, and the importance of togetherness.

During the event, students explored Diwali's rich history and traditions, creating a respectful space for learning and celebration. We sampled some traditional Diwali sweets, including burfi kalakared (a creamy fudge), jalebi (a delicious pastry), and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). These treats were a huge hit and provided a tasty insight into the flavours of this beautiful festival.

We also enjoyed a craft activity inspired by Rangoli—the intricate, colourful patterns displayed at Hindu homes and temples. Students let their creativity shine, drawing patterns with bright colours and symbols that mirror the spirit of Diwali.

Adding to the fun, students with Mehndi (Henna painting) skills joined in, offering Henna designs for others to experience. Students learnt about the significance of this ancient art form and had the opportunity to enjoy intricate henna designs on their hands, marking the festive spirit.

The event was a fantastic way to celebrate diversity and deepen our understanding of the Diwali traditions. A huge thank you to everyone who joined, tried something new, and helped make it a meaningful and joyous celebration!