CELEBRATING DIWALI AT HOME
Usually, when we think of Diwali, a warm image of brightly lit diyas against the dark of the night pops in the mind instantly along with the bustling hullabaloo of market melas, families meeting up, sharing gifts, and so on. Children especially, have the time of their lives during Diwali, but as we seem to be stuck in a never-ending quarantine, it’s no secret that the festivities are going to be different this time around.
However, there’s always a way to have lots of fun by adding a zing of creativity and at CRY we tried to do exactly that for our children!
On November 8th Diwali celebrations kicked off early for children at CRY however this time with a virtual twist. Despite the prevailing pandemic putting usual festivities to a halt, the children’s spirits were in no way dampened and they enthusiastically participated in the ‘Masti Ki Pathshala’ held via zoom call from the comfort of their homes.
Starting with a poetic narration of the Ramayana, the children were told about the message of welcoming new beginnings and allowing the triumph of light over evil in our lives. They were encouraged to share their thoughts and freely ask questions, ensuring that the session became more of a fun discussion for them. Following suit, the children shared their own Diwali experiences from before and how they planned on celebrating this time round as per the ‘new normal’.
This was followed by a step by step guide on how to make colorful paper lanterns to set the tone for the festival. Many children had already taken the initiative to make Diwali decorations for their homes (which they proudly showed off for the camera with the biggest smiles on their faces!) They caught on quite quickly and made their lanterns, promising that they would make some more with their families later.
The festivities continued with the excited babble of the children and the CRY team emphasizing the importance of not using firecrackers and instead opting for alternatives like rangolis, lanterns, and mitti diyas. The children were told more about the ill effects of firecrackers on both, health and the environment and how there are other safer, more eco-friendly ways for them to have a great time.
The children had plenty of fun and this event was surely a great way to kickstart the pre celebrations for the festival of lights. While it is unfortunate that children cannot enjoy the festival like they usually do, we are trying our best to create a festive environment nonetheless and make it as memorable for them as possible.
-SEHER
CRY VOLUNTEER
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