1. Diwali
(dih-wah-lee)
The Festival of Light

2. Facts About Diwali Diwali is a festival of light
It is the Hindu New Year
Diwali is also celebrated by Sikhs and other countries around the world
Diwali is an Indian festival and lasts for 5 days
It happens during October and November
The festival is in honour of the Goddess Lakshmi who Hindu’s believe brings them good luck in the coming year.

3. Hindus across the world celebrate Diwali in honour of the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman
Video clip explains the story of Diwali

4. Diwali – How is it celebrated?
Houses are cleaned and decorated with Rangoli patterns. The patterns are placed on door steps to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi

5. Small lamps are also lit all around the house called diyas.
This is to make sure that Lakshmi can see the houses and visit them to bring good fortune to the family.

6. Small colourful foot prints are drawn on the floor in the houses to show her long awaited arrival to the family home.

7. Cards and small gifts are given out to family and friends
Cards and small gifts are given out to family and friends. Hindu’s often make special Diwali sweets called Barfi.

8. Write down eight key points from the story of Rama and Sita.
Wednesday task to be written in L2L books.
You will be exploring these points in a drama workshop on Friday.

9. Create eight still images telling the story of Rama and Sita
In groups of four.
Create eight still images telling the story of Rama and Sita
What are the most important parts?
Friday. Storyboard worksheet available if students are struggling.