** Celebrating Diwali and why it is important children understand their culture and religion**
When Manisha Shah opened her home to welcome a child in danger of becoming just another victim of homeless and/or parentless Nepalese children, she began paving the way for that child to develop a positive sense of identity.
Culture and religion have a big influence on children in many ways: it influences their beliefs and their opinions, it can help them develop an appreciation for diversity and tolerance for others, and it can help them understand how the world works – both in good ways and not so good ways.
With guidance, children can become unique and self-confident with a positive self-image, whilst gaining a sense of belonging to their community and building their social skills.
Considered the most important celebration in the Hindu calendar is Diwali. Marking the beginning of the Hindu New Year, it is celebrated by more than a billion people globally and spans several other religions including Jainism, and Sikhism.
Diwali - a festival of lights that celebrates the victory of good over evil, is important for children; aside from providing the opportunity to embrace their community, it teaches them the values of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope for new beginnings.
Taking place annually, the dates coincide with the moon’s cycle and generally falls in October or November. The festival is five days long with the main celebrations take place on the third day, it is a time for families and friends to gather, to pray, to exchange gifts, and to eat delicious food, and forms a vital part of a child’s learning, development and understanding.
With nine children now under her care, Manisha and her family use simple, traditional methods to ensure each child feels safe and loved, has a sense of belonging, a structured education and develops an understanding of their culture and religion.
We are incredibly proud of our partnership with Manisha, being able to provide her with the support she needs to continue her excellent work. We’d like to take this opportunity to wish her, the children in her home, and everybody else around the world, a very enjoyable Diwali.
