Hinduism is the third largest religion in the UK (after Christianity and Islam). Its origin is the Indian subcontinent, so Hindu is often the religion of many people and their descendants who have immigrated to Britain from that part of the world.

Diwali is one of the most important Hindu festivals of the year. It is known as the ‘festival of lights’ and is celebrated in families by performing traditional activities together in their homes.

In Britain many Hindus celebrate Diwali. People clean and decorate their homes with lamps and candles. People also give each other sweets and the different communities may gather for a religious ceremony and get-together.

Hindus celebrate Diwali by lighting small clay lamps called diya. These lamps are kept on during the night in order to make the goddess Lakshmi feel welcome. Many people set off fireworks, and because Diwali is celebrated in late October/ early November, these displays often coincide with Bonfire Night displays.

Diwali is a family time and many families get together for the celebrations. People often begin the day by attending their local temple, then have a big meal with their families and share presents.

What are the key points I should tell the children?

• Diwali is a festival called the ‘festival of lights’
• It is celebrated by Hindus

 

Free printable Diya

Download the free printable template of the Diya lamp.

 

 

 

 

 

Products that can help you to explore Diwali

Childminding Best Practice Club – themed packs

Join the Childminding Best Practice Club and get monthly packs of themed activities emailed to you. As well as art projects with templates, each pack includes a planning guide to help you plan around a theme.

Diversity Awareness Pack

Printable diversity craft projects and printable diversity colouring pages to help childminders to teach 20 diversity topics including disability, religion, race, families and multicultural holidays including Diwali.