Monday 13th November 2023 marked the beginning of our themed week for Diwali and our second religious and cultural celebration of the new academic year.
The UK has a rich heritage of culture and diversity. This is continuing today in an era of globalisation and an increasingly interdependent world. Religion and belief for many people forms a crucial part of their culture and identity.
There are approximately 1.5 million Hindus and Sikhs who celebrate Diwali (for various reasons) every year in the UK. The great thing is you do not have to be of faith to celebrate or take part in the celebrations. Embracing our differences, in particular, our cultures, religions, languages and traditions will provide us with a better understanding of the diversity in our communities.
The word Diwali means ‘Rows of Lighted Lamps’. Diwali is also more commonly known as the ‘Festival of Lights’ because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small oil lamps called ‘Diyas’. The lights are to encourage the Goddess of Luck, Lakshmi, to visit and bring blessings and wealth in the New Year. Different regions celebrate different stories of Diwali. In South Asia they tell the story of Rama and Sita returning to Ayodhya after having been exiled for many years. The row of lights were lit by the town’s people to help them find the way home.
Diwali always falls sometime between October and November every year but the exact date varies as the Hindu calendar is based on the Moon. This year, Diwali took place on Sunday 12th November. Places of worship and faith for Hindus (temples) and Sikhs (Gudwaras) were open and welcome to everyone.
Carmen and Ray, our wonderful catering staff prepared a beautiful menu for the pupils;
- Indian Savoury Mix
- Chicken Tikka Masala
- Saffron Rice
- Chapati/Naan Bread
- Vegetable Korma (veg option)
- Mango Ice Cream
- Raita (greek yogurt/cucumber/tomato/onion)
- Pomegranate Salad with Pomegranate Molasses