Diwali Presentation: 2nd Grade

Friday, November 16, 2012

Parts of presentation courtesy: © 2010 The Hindu American Foundation. All rights reserved

Hello Everybody! We would like to welcome all our second grade friends and our beloved teachers to this Diwali Celebration! Namaste!

Namaste is a traditional Hindu greeting based on the belief that each one of us is a part of God or the Divine. 

     The word Diwali represents the following:     

      Diwali is the festival of lights. “D” is for “Diya” - Diwali means “row of lights”. People place rows of diyas (clay lamps filled with oil)

in their homes and courtyards to dispell darkness.     

The light from these diyas symbolizes the knowledge that destroys negative traits such as anger, jealousy, greed, fear or suffering. These

lights help attain inner illumination and enlighten understanding.

“W” is for “Worship” - Hindus worship Lord Ganesha and Lakshmi for good fortune and prosperity. Goddess Lakshmi is goddess of

wealth

New clothing is worn to pay respect to Goddess Lakshmi for blessings of prosperity, good health and good fortune.

New Clothing

    “A” is for “Art” - Rangoli, paper lanterns and children’s crafts are popular activities

Rangoli, made of colored powder, dry grains and/or flowers, adorns the doorstep to welcome guests with honor. Diwali is a season for visiting

with friends and family.

“L” is for “Legends” Diwali represents victory of good over evil. There are different legends associated with Diwali – Lord Rama’s homecoming: on this

day Lord Ram returned home with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman after 14 years of exile. Other legends include marriage of Lord Vishnu and Goddess

Laxmi, Krishna legends etc. Goddess Kali is also worshiped on this day.

“I” is for “International” - Diwali is actually celebrated all over the world – USA, UK, Australia, Thailand, Malayasia, Africa, etc. Diwali is a true global

holiday. Traditional dances add to the festivities.Diwali means family, friends, fun, food, festivity and firecrackers.

Happy Diwali!

 

Indian festivals are all about food. Savory snacks, like samosas, are also relished to the last crumb. Sweets, or mithais, are enjoyed during Diwali. We hope you enjoy the yummy snacks prepared by our awesome moms. 

Food

 

HAPPY HAPPY DIWALI!DIWALI!