Summary
They’re not just rows of lamps. . . they light the way to the biggest celebration on the Hindu calendar! In this BrainPOP movie, Tim and Moby shine a light on the festival of Diwali. Find out why this five-day celebration is so important to people in India and people who follow Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Learn what the name “Diwali” actually means, and see how the holiday reflects some of the most basic beliefs of the Hindu religion. Explore some of the Hindu mythology behind Diwali, including the legend of the return of Rama and the worship of deities like Laksmi and Kali. And discover many of the customs of Diwali, from the lighting of lamps and fireworks to the taking of ritual oil baths! We’ll keep the lights on for you!
Viewer safety
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Diwali:
- What is one new thing you learned about diwali?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining diwali.
- Draw or give one example of your own.