Students from over 40 nationalities celebrate Diwali

Bangalore: In keeping with its spirit of multi-culturalism and diversity, students from over 40 nationalities across the globe celebrated the festival of lights at Canadian International School (CIS) on Friday in all its traditional fervour with jubilation and enthusiasm. Kindergarten students kickstarted the celebrations at different Diwali centres to get a hands-on experience of Diwali-related activities. The students rotated among different classrooms and worked together to make simple crafts like diyas, rangoli, cards and even got to tap their feet and groove to some Diwali music. The entire campus was decorated with lanterns, painted pots, diyas, and floral garlands.

Teachers and students assembled together to unleash their creativity and create designs for paper lanterns and beautiful rangoli designs. There was also a flash mob by the students to surprise their teachers and wish them a happy and prosperous Diwali.

As part of the Diwali celebration, Canadian International School initiated a multi - faceted program in the school premises. A cultural show called "Deepjale" was hosted in the Odeum. The auditorium was packed with parents and students, eagerly waiting to watch the fantastic string of performances. It was great seeing such a cheerful atmosphere at the school and students and parents had a great time performing on the big stage. The show concluded with a fashion show that showcased the diverse community at CIS. Parents, students, teachers, and administration staff members participated in the show.

"CIS gives you the opportunity to learn about different cultures and celebrates all kinds of festivals. "Deepjale" was one such initiative where the entire community learnt about one of India's most celebrated festivals," said Harshitha, a CIS student.

"I didn't know much about Diwali till I came to CIS. Now, I even got to participate in cultural performances. It is so much fun!" added another CIS student,Nicholas.

Shweta Sastri, Managing Director, Canadian International School said: "Diwali brings out joy in us all. It was fantastic to see the culmination of over two months of practice from our students, teachers, and parents in some spectacular performances. Seeing this resonating from our multicultural and diverse community makes us feel accomplished as a truly international school."

Diwali, "the Festival of Lights" is one of the most important and colourful festivals celebrated with much fanfare, traditional goodwill and rituals across the country. Diwali is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. CIS celebrates a plethora of festivals to enhance the social and cultural development of the community in a multicultural environment.