Howick Kindergarten has been enjoying celebrating Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights. The tamariki have been learning about the Indian culture and the significance of Diwali. They have been involved with different art activities which are mainly associated with Diwali.

What was particularly special was that one of our parents Ramandeep, Joban’s Mum came in and spent a day with us. Along with her she brought some props. She shared a story of Diwali and told us why Diwali is celebrated. She showed us pictures of decorated houses with lots of different types of lights and rangoli (patterns made out if coloured sand) in front of them and also the photos of yummy Indian sweets which are specially made for Diwali.

We got to use Raman’s props which had a rangoli pattern mold and lots of different powdered colours. It was so much fun to use the patterns and decorate the front of our kindergarten. Then Raman drew henna tattoos on all the children’s and teachers’ hands/arms. We were extremely patient as we had to wait for our turns and also wait till the henna was all dried out. The henna is wet paste made out of dried leaves of henna plant and can be smudged easily. The kindergarten was buzzing all day long. Thank you, Joban and Ramandeep for sharing your culture with us.

Diwali is a time to celebrate good over evil and light over darkness, so let’s all have a happy, prosperous and healthy Diwali whānau! शुभ दिपावली 🙏🏽 Happy Diwali 🙏🏽