Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is the Hindu festival of lights celebrated over 5 days. It commemorates the victory of good over evil and the lighting of lamps symbolizes the removal of darkness and ignorance. Families and communities come together, light lamps around their homes and temples, engage in worship, set off fireworks, make rangoli designs and share special meals. The festival promotes bonding between loved ones and the spreading of light, knowledge and positivity.

1. Welcome to this presentation of Deepavali

2. What is Deepavali? Deepavali is the festival of lights for the Hindus “ deepa” means lamp “ avali means row “ deepavali” means rows and rows of lamps Deepavali is also known as Diwali

3. DEEPAVALI Lord Krishna removes a demon king, Narakasura on this day. This is a celebration of victory of Good thoughts over Bad thoughts. Rows and rows of lamps are lit. Symbolism of Removing darkness and ignorance. Bring in light and knowledge.

4. Significance of Lamp Light symbolizes knowledge Remove darkness that symbolizes ignorance

5. How is it celebrated? It is celebrated for 5 days. People light their houses with lots of little oil lamps Special worships are done at home and temples

6. Celebrations… After sunset, fireworks are seen everywhere…each and every street…

7. Celebrations… Beautiful and colorful designs are put in front of their houses called “rangoli”

8. Family Get-togethers This is a special occasion for everyone to come together and celebrate together…Special dishes and sweets are made and they eat together with their families and share with all in the community.

9. Deepavali is a people oriented festival where families and friends meet to enjoy and establish a world of closeness. The light from within shines through as the ignorance that blinds us fades away!. Wish you all a very Happy Deepavali!!!

10. UNIVERSAL VEDIC PRAYER “ Asato Maa Sad Gamaya, Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya Mrityor Ma Amritm Gamaya, Aum Shanti Shanti Shanti” Lead us from the Unreal to the Real , Lead us from Untruth to Truth . Lead us from Darkness to Light , Lead us from Death to Immortality Let there be Peace, Peace, Peace all around. “ Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu, Ma Kashchit Dukha Manuyat” May all be Happy , all be Free from Misrey, May all Realize Goodness , no one suffer Pain. Dhanyavad – Thank You This has been a presentation of Hindu Education Foundation (HEF) Which has been working with schools to present correct information About Hindu Dharma and India. For more information, visit http://www.hindueducation.org