Celebrating Diwali
Mrs. Joshi's class leads a
November Lower School Assembly

India is a big country where lots and lots of people live.  They speak many different languages.  There are many religions in India.   So there are many celebrations.  This week they are celebrating a festival called Diwali.  We will talk about Diwali.  Some children will share with us how they celebrate Diwali.  Then we will demonstrate two fun games. - Michelle

Diwali is celebrated in India.  It is a festival of lights. -Lane

Diwali usually comes around the end of October or the beginning of November - Daniel

Diwali is celebrated for four days.  Each day has a special meaning. - Danielle

The most celebrated day is called Lakshimi Poojan.   It is observed to honor and thank the goddess of prosperity.   It is an important day for the merchants.  The store owners have a lot of fireworks on the streets.  Many times there is a competition between them to see who has the most fancy fireworks. -  Peter

Another day is a special day for brothers and sisters.   The sisters cook their brothers' favorite food and the brothers buy gifts for their sisters.  They don't fight on this day. - Alexandra

No matter what day it is, people celebrate Diwali in a fun way.  They get up early in the morning, eat special foods, and visit each other and exchange gifts. - Harry

The best thing that the children enjoy is the fireworks!  For a whole week you can see and hear the fireworks throughout the day.   - Olivia

Diwali is a Hindu festival.  But many people from other religions celebrate it too.  Because it is fun!  - Christina

During the afternoons children play some fun games.   We are going to show you the American version of a game called Langdi.  There are two teams.  One team is called the hoppers and the other team is called the runners.  The hoppers have to tag the runners.  Once a hopper tags a runner the hopper gets a point.  But if a hopper puts down the other foot before she tags, the runner gets a point.  After everyone gets a chance to hop they switch.  The team that gets the most points wins.  - Jordan

Khokho is a fun game.  There are many versions.   We are going to do the easy version.  We stand in a circle in pairs.  Two people get to run and tag each other.  Before you get tagged you stand in front or behind someone so you do not get tagged.  Then that person has to run.   - Ben

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