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DIWALI: The Indian festival of light
Practicing Direct and Indirect speech
Introduction:
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. People from different communities come together to celebrate this joyous occasion, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
Discuss any new vocabulary:
Grammar Question:
1. During Diwali, the Indian ____ is colourful, bustling and vibrant with activity.
(a) festivity
(b) festival
(c) festive
(d) festivities
Section One:
In the first paragraph, we can discuss the origins of Diwali and its significance. During a conversation between two friends, one might excitedly say, “Did you know Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means ‘row of lights’?” In a response full of intrigue, the other friend could mention how they heard that it commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana from their 14-year exile after defeating Ravana.
Discuss any new vocabulary:
Grammar Question:
2. The term ‘Diwali’ can be traced back to ____ Sanskrit words, ‘deepa’ meaning light and ‘avali’ meaning row.
(a) an ancient
(b) anciently
(c) the ancient
(d) its ancient
Section Two:
The second paragraph we can learn about the various customs and traditions associated with Diwali. We can include a dialogue between siblings discussing their favourite aspects of the festival. The sister might exclaim, “I absolutely love decorating our home with colourful rangoli designs and candles!” In response, her brother could share how he looks forward to the family participating in “puja,” a prayer ritual performed on Diwali to honor goddess Lakshmi and seek blessings for wealth and prosperity.
Listening Section: Watch the video and answer the five questions below.
Questions:
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- Where did the festival originate?
- Where did the word “Diwali” originate and what does it mean?
- What do people give each other during the festival?
- How do people dress on the day of Diwali?
- Why are “fireworks” controversial?
- Where else, (what other countries) celebrate Diwali?
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Section Three:
In the third paragraph, we could discuss how people exchange gifts with friends and family during Diwali. One person might offer a box of sweets while saying to another: “Happy Diwali! I hope you enjoy these delicious treats I’ve brought for you!” Meanwhile, a nearby group of children may express their excitement about receiving new clothes and toys as part of this special occasion.
Discuss any new vocabulary:
Grammar Question:
3. Diwali, referred to as the “Festival of Lights,” signifies the victory of ____ over darkness.
(a) lightness
(b) bright
(c) brightness
(d) light
Section Four:
Lastly, we can highlight how celebrating Diwali brings people together from diverse backgrounds to promote harmony. A young man might approach an elderly neighbour and request guidance on where to place diyas around his house. The old man may fondly recall the time he spent decades ago teaching the young man’s father about this same tradition.
Discuss any new vocabulary:
Grammar Question:
4. Before Diwali, people typically ____ their homes to welcome prosperity.
(a) cleaning intensively
(b) intensive cleaning
(c) clean intensively
(d) intensively cleaning
Section Five:
In conclusion, Diwali is a beautiful and vibrant festival celebrated across India with colourful rituals and customs. Its rich history and symbolism foster a sense of unity among diverse communities, as they come together to embrace the spirit of knowledge and light triumphing over darkness.
Discuss any new vocabulary:
Grammar Question:
5. Diwali couldn’t be imagined without elaborate firework displays that try to outshine one another by being more impressive and ____.
(a) luminescent
(b) luminaries
(c) luminous
(d) illuminating
Writing Exercise:
“Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant celebration in Hindu culture.
Write a brief essay discussing the history and origins of Diwali, its importance to Hindu communities around the world, and describe how it is traditionally celebrated. You should include information about the various rituals performed during the five days of the festival, such as decorating homes with oil lamps and colorful rangoli designs, exchanging gifts, and lighting fireworks. Additionally, explain the different legends associated with Diwali and how they vary across regions in India. Conclude your essay by reflecting on the universal messages of Diwali — good triumphing over evil and light dispelling darkness — and how they can resonate with people regardless of their cultural backgrounds.”