Rosh Hashanah, literally meaning "head [of] the year", is the Jewish New Year. The biblical name for this holiday is Yom Teruah, literally "day of shouting or blasting."  (Source)

Rosh Hashanah Information

• Rosh Hashanah is the celebration of the Jewish New Year.

• It is one of the most holy days in the entire year for Jews, typically spent in congregation for much of the day. It begins at sundown the prior day.

• This is a happy holiday that brings family together to celebrate the new year. Symbols include eating apples in honey to wish each other a sweet year. The Shofar is blown at synagogue to welcome the new year, and there are songs and festive meals. Many attend synagogue and do not work or attend school. 

Information originally developed in collaboration with Sheldon Baker, Danit Netzer, and Sara Bothwell Allen for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Navaratri (na-va-raa-tree) is a nine-night celebration of the Feminine Divine that occurs four times a year (the spring and fall celebrations being amongst the more widely celebrated). The most popularly worshiped manifestations of the Feminine Divine include Durga (the Mother Goddess), Saraswati (The Goddess of Knowledge, Speech, and the Arts) and Lakshmi (the Goddess of Health, Wealth, and Prosperity). Some traditions honor the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, while others celebrate the three goddesses (Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati) with three days dedicated to each. This is a time to recognize the role in which the loving, compassionate, and gentle — yet sometimes powerful and fierce — feminine energy plays in our lives. The tenth night is known as Dussehra and is marked by many festivities.

Durga Pooja is a celebration of the Goddess Durga — who represents the embodiment of Shakti, the powerful feminine force that governs all cosmic creation, existence, and change — and her victory over a demon named Mahishasura. She is said to have descended from her home in Kailash with Lord Shiva to her maternal home on Earth. Durga Puja starts after the completion of Pitru Paksh and is celebrated during Navratri. During this time, people will recite prayers, perform rituals, and sing songs dedicated to her. This celebration is especially significant in the Indian state of Bengal and Nepal.

Information

• Navaratri is a nine-night (and ten day) festival honoring and celebrating the Feminine Divine. 

• There are four Navaratris celebrated across India. They are Sharad Navaratri during the Fall (Sep-Oct), the Chaitra Navaratri during Spring (Mar-Apr), the Magha Gupt Navaratri during Winter (Jan-Feb) and Ashadha Gupt Navaratri during Monsoon (Jun-Jul). Of the 4 Navaratris, the Sharad and Chaitra Navaratris are the most widely celebrated. The other two are referred to as Gupt which means secret and are not widely celebrated.

• The feminine aspect of the divine creator is known as Devi (goddess, in Sanskrit), or Shakti. Shakti is the creative and energetic force of the Divine. 

• Navaratri is not only about honoring the role these various female manifestations (e.g. Lakshmi, Parvati, Saraswati) play in Hinduism, but also the role the loving, compassionate, and gentle, yet sometimes powerful and fierce feminine energy plays in our lives.

• Many people fast for these nine nights. 

• Each region in India has their favorite festivals even though all festivals have their place too! So while Navaratri is a popular festival all over India, it is perhaps slightly more popular in the states of Gujarat and West Bengal.

• In Gujarat, a tradition of Dandiya Raas or Garbaa is followed where men and women dance in huge concentric circles. 

• In West Bengal, Navaratri is also known as Mahalaya or Durga Pooja where the feminine divine is worshiped as Durga, a warrior form of goddess Parvati, who destroyed the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura had a boon that he could only be killed by a woman and goddess Parvati took the form of Durga to wage a war with him and eventually kill him. The celebration in Kolkata has been given the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) tag   https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/durga-puja-in-kolkata-00703

• Some traditions celebrate Navratri by using each day to honor one of the nine forms of Durga, all of which display the following specific qualities and attributes:

  • Shailaputri — The first night of Navaratri is dedicated to Shailaputri, the daughter of Hemavana, who is the king of the Himalayas. Seen as the “mother of nature,” she is depicted riding a bull and holding a lotus flower (representing devotion) in one hand and a trident (representing past, present, and future) in the other.

  • Brahmacharini — The second night is dedicated to Brahmacharini, whose name means “one who practices austerity.” Said to bestow success and victory, she holds prayer beads in her right hand and a water pot in her left, representing the practice of penance in pursuit of an auspicious goal. 

  • Chandraghanta — The third night is dedicated to Chandraghanta, who’s named for the half-moon shaped like a bell on her forehead, which is described as her third eye. With ten hands holding various weapons, Chandraghanta rides a tiger, establishing justice and bestowing strength and courage to devotees. 

  • Kushmanda — The fourth night is dedicated to Kushmanda, whose name means “creator of the universe.” Usually depicted with eight arms, she rides a lion and is known for bringing energy and light to the world. 

  • Skandamata — The fifth night is dedicated to Skandamata, who’s named for being the mother of Kartikeya, a deity of yoga and spiritual advancement who’s also popularly known as the “god of war.” Seated on a lotus, emphasizing her divine nature, she has four arms and carries an infant Kartikeya on her lap. 

  • Katyayani — The sixth night is dedicated to Katyayani, who is known as one of Durga’s fiercest forms. With wild hair, and depicted with up to 18 arms, all holding weapons, she dispels darkness and evil, bestowing peace among her devotees. 

  • Kalaratri — The seventh night is dedicated to Kalaratri, who is also known as Shubankari, which means “doing good” in Sanskrit, as she provides both fearlessness and auspicious results to her devotees. Dark-complexioned, with four arms and disheveled hair, she is also among Durga’s most menacing forms. 

  • Mahagauri — The eighth night is dedicated to Mahagauri, whose name means “extremely white.” Wearing white, she is a symbol of tranquility and serenity, alleviating the suffering of her devotees. 

  • Siddhidatri — The last night is dedicated to Siddhidatri, whose name means “giver of supernatural powers.” Seated on a lotus flower, she instills devotion into the hearts of devotees, granting them happiness and wisdom.

• The tenth day is known as Vijaya Dashmi (Vijaya = Victory; Dashmi = 10th day in the lunar calendar). This day is also known as Dasaraa or Dussehra (da-shay-hraa).

• Vijaya (vee-ja-yaa) Dashmi (da-shmi) celebrates the victory of Lord Ram over the evil king Ravana. 

• On this tenth day, effigies of Ravana are made out of wood, paper and cloth and burnt. 

• Various parts of the country also have open stage shows depicting the story of Ramayana called the “Ram Lila”.

• Vijaya Dashmi is celebrated with cleaning the house and surroundings and decorating with garlands of marigold flowers. 

• In Nepal, Dussehra is also known as Dashain and is the longest Hindu festival in the country. It is celebrated over two weeks with prayers and offerings to Goddess Durga.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students “Happy Navaratri”  (na-va-raa-tree) during the 9 days of the festival and on the 10th day, “Happy Dussehra” (duh-sheh-raa) or “Happy Vijaya Dashmi” (vi-ja-yaa-dushuh-mee).

• Students may want to organize a dance or participate in a local Navaratri Garba event.

• Recognize nine female leaders who have made an international, national, or local impact.

Additional Resources

• 9 things to know about Navaratri 

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Its central themes are atonement and repentance. Jews traditionally observe this holy day with a day-long fast, confession, and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services. (Source)

Yom Kippur Information

• Yom Kippur is The Day of Atonement, a very solemn day and the holiest day of the year for Jews.  It begins at sundown the day prior. Most adults and teens fast, while middle grade children may begin partial day fasting (practices varies by family and by child).

• This is not a day of celebration--it is a solemn day of reflection and atonement. It is a day families would spend all day in synagogue and taking some walks. 

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Since this is a day of atonement, wishing someone a “Happy Yom Kippur” is not appropriate.  Try saying, “I hope you have a meaningful Yom Kippur.”

• Truly no work should be expected of Jewish students observing this day.

Information originally developed in collaboration with Sheldon Baker and Sara Bothwell Allen for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Dashain, is a major religious festival in Nepal and India. Dashain called Dussehra in India is celebrated by the Hindus of India and Nepal as well as elsewhere in the world and among the Lhotshampa of Bhutan and the Burmese Gurkhas of Myanmar.

The 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar is an important day to celebrate the full moon and harvest by several countries in East and Southeast Asia. In China, it is the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival. In Japan, it is called Tsukimi meaning moon viewing. In North and South Korea, it is Chuseok meaning “autumn evening” and also known as Hangawi meaning mid-autumn. And in Vietnam, it is Tết Trung Thu.

Information originally developed in collaboration with Yi Yang for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Columbus Day recognizes the life of Christopher Columbus, an explorer from Genoa, Italy.  This day is a celebration for Italian-Americans across the country. He made four trips from Europe over the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas between 1492 and 1495.  It has often been written that he "discovered" America or that he proved the world was round instead of flat. While these statements are inaccurate and his legacy is source of different interpretations, he connected Europeans with the achievements in technology, agriculture, and wisdom of Indigenous peoples in the Americas, and his voyages began an era of exploration, immigration, enslavement, and exploitation. His plan for his voyage was initially rejected by Portugal, England, and France, but he persisted, and eventually secured funding from the King of Spain. The incomplete view of his experiences has been been brought into sharper focus in recent decades through recognition of the extreme violence and brutality he perpetrated against Indigenous peoples, including the enslavement and murder of thousands of Tainos, among others, which led him to be imprisoned upon his return to Spain after his third voyage.

The following resources provide more information on the complicated history of this historical figure:

• 10 Things You May Not Know about Christopher Columbus (The History Channel)

• Why Columbus Day Courts Controversy (The History Channel)

• How Christopher Columbus Became an Italian-American Icon (Time)

Information originally developed in collaboration with David Manuel for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Like many neighboring communities, Lexington Public Schools recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ Day each October. Observing this day is a way to center and celebrate the histories, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous peoples.  It is a time to focus on contemporary Native communities, dispel myths and misinformation, and support more accurate and authentic representations of Native Americans. 

Ideas for All Ages

Watch Videos*

Learn more about Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  Here is one video, specifically produced for children, with age-appropriate content.  However, this video, and other media like it, also includes images that may reinforce dominant stereotypes about Indigenous people as "primitive," so these videos should be coupled with contemporary representations of Native people; here is a second video from Indigenous people in Canada that details how they celebrate.  As with learning about any identities, it's important to reinforce that there is no one way to describe an entire group of people!

Read Stories by Native Authors

• • Fry Bread by Kevin Noble Maillard

  • At the Mountain’s Base by Traci Sorell

  • Fall in Line, Holden! by Daniel W. Vandever

  • Find more ideas at Debbie Reese’s blog

Land Acknowledgement

Which Native nation(s) lived on the land where I now live, go to school, visit?  Find out more about the traditional homelands of North American Native nations on this map.

Ideas for Grades 3+

Build Your Background Knowledge

• Did you know that Native Americans have contributed many things to the

American way of life today? Read about some of those contributions.

Virtual Exhibits

• Visit the Peabody Museum’s virtual exhibit “Listening to Wampanoag Voices: Beyond 1620.”

• Explore exhibits and the collection at National Museum of the American Indian

Sing a Song

• Learn the words to a song about 1492 and sing along on YouTube.

Ideas for Adolescents & Adults

Virtual Event

• National Museum of the American Indian presents “Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Black-Indigenous Youth Advancing Social Justice” on October 11, 1:00-2:00.  This event highlights youth of blended Black and Native heritage who use art, activism, and policy to advance Black and Indigenous solidarity and affect positive change in their communities.  It is geared toward a more adult audience but families may choose to watch with older children.

Movie Screening

• Register to watch the Emmy-award winning film Dawnland followed by a screening of Dear Georgina on October 11 at 7:00 p.m.

Statewide Activism

• Check out Indigenous Peoples’ Day Massachusetts to learn more about efforts to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a state holiday.

Tips for Talking and Teaching About Indigenous People

• Native Now: How to Talk in a Respectful Way About and With Native Peoples

• National Museum of the American Indian: Terminology

• Native Knowledge 360° Essential Understandings about American Indians: A framework from NMAI that highlights key concepts about the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and contemporary lives of Native Peoples

This information was originally compiled by K-5 Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator Alex Kuschel.

Many members of our community observe the festival of Diwali, also known as the Deepawali, Festival of Lights, and Hindu New Year.  Here is some information as well as suggestions on how we can support those who celebrate in our schools.

Diwali Information

• Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, although the origins of this victory vary from region to region.

• Diwali is celebrated on the darkest night of the year (Amavaas or No Moon Day during the month of Kartik as per the Hindu lunar calendar) and ushers in the new year with the arrival of the new moon.

• This major festival, celebrated by Hindus usually lasts five days. Within these 5 auspicious days , there is a main celebration “Diwali” day which is celebrated differently in various sub-Hindu cultures. On the first day, people will often clean their homes and shops, as well as shop for gold to help bring good fortune.  On the second day, people typically decorate their homes with clay lamps and do rangoli.  The third day is the main day of the festival where Lakshmi Puja is done followed by mouthwatering feasts and celebrations with fireworks. The fourth day is the first day of the new year when friends and relatives visit each other with gifts and best wishes for the season.  The fifth day is when brothers visit their married sisters, who welcome them with love and lavish meals.

• The festival coincides with other religious festivals Mahavir Nirvana Diwas (Jainism) and Bandi Chhor divas (Sikhism) & Tihar (Nepal) and shares the custom of celebrating with lights. (wiki)

• The festival is often celebrated by gathering with family and friends, doing a Lakshmi Puja (Hindu prayer to the Goddess of wealth and prosperity), enjoying a grand feast, visiting a Hindu temple, lighting lamps and lanterns, drawing colorful Rangolis around the house, and lighting fireworks.

• The festival gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness.

• Over the centuries, Diwali has become a national festival that is also enjoyed by non-Hindu communities. For instance, in Jainism, Diwali marks the nirvana, or spiritual awakening, of Lord Mahavira on October 15, 527 B.C.; in Sikhism, it honors the day that Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Sikh Guru, was freed from imprisonment. Buddhists in India celebrate Diwali as well. 

• India is a big country with varied cultures and beliefs. In northern India, they celebrate the story of King Rama's return to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana by lighting rows of clay lamps. Many in South India celebrate Diwali as the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. In western India, Diwali marks the day Lord Vishnu (one of the gods of the Hindu Trinity) sent demon King Bali to rule the nether world.

• The festival is officially celebrated in several countries around the world. Diwali is celebrated as a national holiday in Malaysia.

• On a related note, October was recently named Hindu Heritage Month.

• Indian Americans of Lexington, a local community organization has been celebrating Diwali through a cultural event for over a decade now. The event includes cultural performances and acts by local artists, student groups, and allows for sampling of a variety of Indian food items.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Students celebrating Diwali may have a challenging time completing nightly homework.

• Students may enjoy discussing the festival, culture, and foods associated with Diwali.

• Some students are open to sharing information and bringing objects that represent the festival to class.  They may also like to wear festive clothing.

• Staff and students may be encouraged to wear cultural attire associated with the festival.  Encouraging younger students of different ethnicities and cultures to wear their clothing to school would be a nice way to support diversity and inclusion. Some Indian ethnicities prefer to wear their traditional attire on Diwali.

• In younger grades, parents/guardians have enjoyed volunteering to lead the class in creating Diwali crafts. There are several Diwali crafts and puzzles online around which the teachers/parent volunteers of elementary school can create fun projects. Check out an example lesson plan here.

• Notify older students that they may take the day to celebrate without penalty for the absence.

• Consider hosting major school events and celebrations (such as a fall play or sporting events) that require significant preparation outside the five-day Diwali timeline.

• Discuss similar festivals celebrated in other countries, such as Tihar (Nepal) and Lantern festival (China) and lighting the Menorah, lighting candles for Kwanzaa, and setting up lanterns for Ramadan.

• Share fireworks safety and raise awareness on air and noise pollution.  Discuss ways to minimize the pollution.

• Some students/families may like to issue invitations to celebrations.

Additional Resources

• Diwali Toolkit (HinduAmerican.org)

• Diwali: Festival of Lights (National Geographic Kids)

• Let’s Celebrate 5 Days of Diwali (Anjanta Chakraborty)

• The Diwali Gift (Shweta Chopra & Shuchi Mehta)

• Ramayana: A Story of Diwali (Mythological Stories from Mocomi Kids)

Information originally developed in collaboration with Devangi Bhargava (LPS ‘28), Aditya Hanchinamani (LPS ‘31), Purvi Mavchi, Dhwani Swamy, Dhvani Doshi, Nanditha Yelamanchi, Vibha Bardia, Mona Roy, Bindu Setty, and Savitha Yalanadu Shivaiah for the Lexington Public School community.

Guru Nanak Dev ji Gurpurab is one of the most important Sikh festivals which celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism. Guru Nanak Deviji Gurpurab is celebrated by Sikhs in India as well as Sindhis, Punjabis and a diaspora in many nations. Born in 1469 in Talwandi (now in Pakistan), Guru Nanak Devji was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Guru Nanak confronted blind beliefs, challenged oppression and declared alliance with the downtrodden. He asserted everyone’s right to dignity, liberty, justice, and above all divinity. The three main teachings of Guru Nanak Devji are: Naam Japna: believe in one God and remember God by praying; Kirat Karni: work honestly and earn a living through hard work; Vand Chakna: sharing with others, especially those in need, regardless of caste, creed, color or gender. Sikhs may observe the day by decorating their home with lights, and through quiet prayer or family gatherings at home. Sikhs also try to attend a service in the Sikh Gurudwara on this day to hear readings of the the holy scripture The Guru Granth Sahib, or singing of hymns (kirtan). At the end of the service they all partake in a community meal called langar which is offered to all in the Gurudwara. A common greeting on this day is Satsriakal! Gurpurab di vadhaiyan! which is akin to saying Hello! Happy Gurpurab!

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Gurupurab” or “Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti.”

• Students may want to use this day to promote community service or hold it as a day of service.

Additional Resources

• Guru Nanak Jayanti

• Guru Nanek

• Guru Nanek Sahib

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington, Deepika Sawhney, and Romal Sekhon for the Lexington Public School community.

Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated on various dates in the United States, Canada, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Liberia. It began as a day of giving thanks and sacrifice for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year. Similarly named festival holidays occur in Germany and Japan. (Source)

The National Day of Mourning is an annual protest organized since 1970 by the United American Indians of New England on the fourth Thursday of November, the same day as Thanksgiving in the United States. It coincides with an unrelated similar protest and counter-celebration, Unthanksgiving Day, held on the West Coast. (Source)

On December 9 each year, the United Nations marks the adoption of the Genocide Convention.  Read more here.

Hanukkah is a Jewish festival commemorating the recovery of Jerusalem and subsequent rededication of the Second Temple at the beginning of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. It is also known as the Festival of Lights. (Source)

Hanukkah Information

• Hanukkah is an eight-day holiday commemorating the destruction of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, celebrating the miracle of God.

• The holiday is a celebration of light in the dark winter months. Jews celebrate the miracle of God, in particular for how there was enough oil left to keep the candles burning upon the temple's rededication following its desecration by the Greek Seleucid empire. These events occurred around 168 BC.

Information originally developed in collaboration with Danit Netzer and Jason Prentice for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Yaldā Night or Chelleh Night is an Iranian Northern Hemisphere's winter solstice festival celebrated on the "longest and darkest night of the year.” According to the calendar, this corresponds to the night of December 20/21 (±1) in the Gregorian calendar, and to the night between the last day of the ninth month (Azar) and the first day of the tenth month (Dey) of the Iranian solar calendar. (Source)

Information

• One of the most ancient Persian festivals is Yalda, last night of fall and the longest night of the year.

• On this night, family members get together, often in the house of the eldest member, and stay awake all night long, typically until midnight.

• Dried nuts, watermelon, and pomegranate are served as supplications to God for increasing his bounties. Classic poetry and old mythologies are read aloud.

• Iranians believe those who begin winter by eating summer fruits will not fall ill during the cold season. Therefore, eating watermelons is one of the most important traditions of this night.

• Ancient Iranians believed that at the end of the first night of winter darkness is defeated by light and therefore they must celebrate the whole night.

Additional Resources

• Grace Learns About Yalda by Ellie Fard

Information originally developed in collaboration with Mehrnoush Hakimi for the Lexington Public School community.

Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration by billions of people around the world. (Source)

Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture, heritage and traditional values that is held from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu, usually held on the 6th day. (Source)

New Year's Day, also simply called New Year or New Year's, is observed on 1 January, the first day of the year in the modern Gregorian calendar as well as the Julian calendar. (Source)

For some members of our community of Japanese heritage, the day is for reflection, as well as making New Year's resolutions.  Companies in Japan close the week prior to New Year's Day, and many Japanese people spend the time away from work cleaning their homes thoroughly to welcome the New Year God.  It is a quiet holiday many use to visit temples and shrines as well.  

For January 7th, Orthodox Churches on the Old Calendar commemorate the Saints listed on December 25. (Source)

Makara Sankranti is a multi-day festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It marks the day the Sun enters Capricorn (Makara) constellation in the month of January (between Jan 13 and 16). India is a big country where each region has its own cultural practices and variations of the same festival. The Makara Sankranti harvest festival is celebrated in various States of India and coincides with harvest festivals celebrated under different names such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Maghi/Lohri in Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, Magh Bihu in Assam, Uttarayan in Gujarat and Rajasthan, Poush Sankranti in West Bengal. It marks the new year for many to pursue new goals and ventures. The International Kite Festival is organized in Gujarat during this time and kites are flown across the country. The festival is also celebrated in places influenced by Indian culture as Maghe Sankranti in Nepal, Shakrain in Bangladesh, Thingyan in Myanmar, Songkran in Thailand, and Moha Songkran in Cambodia.

Information

• The Makara Sankranti festival is associated with another event called Uttarayana which marks the northward movement of the sun in the sky after the Winter Solstice. In earlier times, Makara Sankranti coincided with the Winter Solstice (Dec 21). Over time with the precession of equinoxes, Makara Sankranti's date moved to January. The International Kite Festival is organized in Gujarat during this time and kites are flown across the country.

• Makara Sankranti serves as a marker for pilgrimages in different parts of India. In Uttar Pradesh, it marks the beginning of the Kumbh Mela whereas in Kerala it marks the end of the Sabarimalai pilgrimage.

• The festival is also celebrated outside India in places influenced by Indian cultures such as Maghe Sankranti in Nepal, Shakrain in Bangladesh, Thingyan in Myanmar, Songkran in Thailand, and Moha Songkran in Cambodia.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a very “Happy Makara Sankranti” (Mah-ka-ra San-kran-tee). Here's a handy pronunciation video. The word “Makara” is alternatively spelled as “Makar” (Mah-kur).

• Ask students if they drew any Kolams or Rangolis in their homes or flew kites.

• Students may invite others to join their celebrations.

Additional Resources

• Winter Solstice by Hindu American Foundation (HAF)

• Pongal and Makara Sankranti by Himalayan Academy

• Makar Sankranti - Festivals for Kids | Mocomi 

• Significance of Makar Sankranti: Why is it celebrated in different states in India?? 

• Makara Sankranti & Pongal – Time for a Fresh Start

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Uttarayn, or the Kite Festival, is an Indian festival that is primarily celebrated in the state of Gujurat. The holiday celebrates when the wind changes direction in Gujurat. It is celebrated by people flying kites with glass coated twine, which they use to cut other people's kites. It marks when the sun transitions from the Zodiac sign Capricorn to Aquarius. It is based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar.

Pongal, is also referred to as Thai Pongal, is a multi-day harvest festival of South India, particularly in the Tamil community. It is observed at the start of the month Thai according to Tamil solar calendar, and this is typically about January 14. (Source)

Some who observe Pongal identify it as a festival for giving thanks, similar to the US holiday of Thanksgiving.

Vasant Panchami (vuh-sunth punch-uh-mee) is a festival that celebrates the arrival of spring. It is also celebrated as Saraswati Pooja in Eastern parts of India. In other parts of India, Saraswati Pooja is celebrated during the Sharad Navratri festival in September. Saraswati is the Goddess of education, music, and arts. People worship her to achieve wisdom and excellence in academic and creative pursuits. Celebrations include a shade of yellow to recognize the mustard crops that are in full bloom during this season. Academic institutions hold rituals and prayers in honor of Saraswati for her blessings for a smooth academic year. People refrain from reading academic materials such as books for a day.

Information:

• Vasant Panchami is a festival that celebrates the arrival of the spring season. Vasant means Spring and Panchami mean the 5th day. The festival is celebrated on the 5th day of Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the month of Magha in the Hindu calendar. This typically occurs at the end of January or early February in the Gregorian calendar. 

• Vasant Panchami is observed on the 5th day of the Magha Gupt Navratri which is one of the 4 Navaratri festivals. Apart from the 5th day, this Navratri is not celebrated widely and hence referred to as Gupt (or secret) Navratri.

• Vasant Panchami is also known as Saraswati Pooja and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, especially in the eastern parts of India. In other parts of India, Saraswati pooja is celebrated during the Sharad Navratri festival. Vasant Panchami is also known as Sri Panchami in some southern states of India.

• Saraswati is the Goddess of education, music, and arts. She represents creative energy. Devotees celebrate Sarawati pooja by placing academic articles such as books, and laptops in a bundle covered by cloth and refrain from reading them for a day. The next day they begin the day by bathing, praying to Sarawati, and opening the bundle to read the books placed the previous day and write a few thoughts. Many households perform a unique ceremony called Vidyarambham (Start of Learning) to initiate their young children aged 2 and above to start learning to read and write. The children are taught to write a few alphabets in their mother tongue using their fingers on a plate of rice.  

• Many educational institutions celebrate Saraswati Pooja and seek blessings from Goddess Saraswati to ensure a smooth and productive academic year. 

• Vasant Panchami marks the start of preparation for another Hindu festival, Holi which arrives 40 days later. The exact arrival of spring varies in different parts of India 

• It is also celebrated by Sikhs as the beginning of the spring season. Sikhs wear yellow-colored clothes, turbans, and fly kites. 

• It is also celebrated across different countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. In Bali, the festival is known as Hari Raya Saraswati and is celebrated by teachers and students by placing religious books in front of the deity. In honor of Saraswati, there is no reading or writing of such books.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Vasant Panchami” (vuh-sunth punch-uh-mee) or “Happy Saraswati Pooja” (sa-ras-wa-tee poo-ja).

• It is also referred to as “Basant Panchami.”

• Students may wish to include yellow clothing as part of the celebrations.

• Students are required to refrain from reading their books on this day so it might be best to avoid any homework assignments due the following day. 

Additional Resources

• 5 things to know about Vasant Panchami 

Information was developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

The International Holocaust Remembrance Day, or the International Day in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, is an international memorial day on 27 January that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, which resulted in the murder of one third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities between 1933 and 1945 by Nazi Germany, an attempt to implement their "final solution" to the Jewish question. 27 January was chosen to commemorate the date that Auschwitz concentration camp was liberated by the Red Army in 1945. (Source)

Maha Shivaratri (Ma-Haa Shi-va-raa-three) also known as “The Great Night of Shiva” is a significant spiritual festival of India celebrated in the month of February or March. There is a deep spiritual meaning to Shiva who represents the energy of the Cosmos. Shivaratri is the night of that transcendental divine consciousness. On this day, devotees fast, meditate, stay up all night, and chant the powerful mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”. The mantras and rituals help devotees transform their negative emotions and their environment into positive energy. Shiva is a symbol of bliss, ethereal calm, and peace. As the Adi-Yogi (first Yogi), he gifted the world with the knowledge of Yoga which allows one to expand one’s consciousness. Ultimately, he protects and transforms the universe by destroying the ignorance of humanity.

Information

• Maha Shivaratri also known as “The Great Night of Shiva” is a significant spiritual festival in India. 

• The day before the new moon or Chaturdashi day (14th day) during the dark half of every lunar month is known as Shivaratri (or Night of Shiva). Among the monthly Shivaratris, the one that occurs in the month of Magha or Phalguna in the Hindu Calendar (month of February/March) is of the most spiritual significance and hence called Maha Shivaratri.

• Shivaratri is marked by the darkest day of the month. There is a deep spiritual meaning to Shiva who represents the energy of the Cosmos. The energy, Shiva Tattva pervades the entire universe and is present within every living being. Shivaratri is the night of that transcendental divine consciousness. The night symbolizes the merging of Shiva and Shakti hence everyone is encouraged to stay awake on Maha Shivaratri.

• On this day, devotees fast, meditate, chant the powerful mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”, attend Maha Shivaratri Puja or Rudra Puja and worship the Shivalinga. The Lingam is the symbolic representation of the Brahman (Ultimate Reality) which is formless, eternal, pervasive, and infinite. being (sat), consciousness (cit), and full of bliss (ananda)

• To observe Maha Shivaratri, some stay up all night. Others visit one of the nearby Shiva temples or go on a pilgrimage to Jyotirlingams (one of the 12 most auspicious and sacred Shiva temples in India). Rudra Puja or Maha Shivaratri Puja is performed to honor Lord Shiva by singing specific Vedic mantras along with certain rituals. The mantras and rituals help devotees transform negative emotions and the environment into positive energy. Chanting mantras help the mind effortlessly meditate on the divine.

• Practices vary across India as not everyone is able to stay up all night or fast. But many try to meditate and chant mantras to connect with the divine and achieve inner peace.

• While Shiva is popularly understood as the God of Destruction, that is just one aspect of his existence. He is also a symbol of bliss, ethereal calm, and peace. As the Adi-Yogi (first Yogi), he gifted the world with the knowledge of Yoga which allows one to expand one’s consciousness. Ultimately, he protects and transforms the universe by destroying the ignorance of humanity.

• Shiva is worshiped around the world in different forms and in other religions such as Buddhism. He is the fierce deity Mahākāla in the Vajrayana school of Buddhism. In Indonesia, he is Batara Guru which means spiritual Guru. In China, he is known as Maheśvara. In Japanese Buddhism, he is Daikokuten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and is worshiped as the god of wealth and fortune.

• In Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism), Shiva is popularly represented in a dancing form called Nataraja. The dance of Shiva is thought to bring the Universe into existence, sustain it and eventually destroy it. Carl Sagan in Cosmos draws parallels between the dance of Shiva and the dance of subatomic particles. The CERN laboratory in Switzerland which researches subatomic particles was gifted a statue of Nataraja by India in recognition of this symbolism.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Maha Shivarathri” (Ma-Haa Shi-va-raa-three) ) Mahashivaratri Pronunciation Sanskrit महाशिवरात्रि mahāśivarātri)/

• Some students may have stayed up all night to celebrate Maha Shivaratri so they may have a challenging time completing nightly homework.

• Students may be willing to teach you how to chant the Panchakshari (5-alphabet) Mantra - “Om Namah Shivaya.”

Additional Resources

• Mantra (“Mun” rhymes with “run” followed by “traa”) - Mantra Pronunciation Sanskrit मन्त्र mantra

• Maha Shivaratri by Himalayan Academy

• Real Meaning of Maha Shivaratri

• Spiritual significance of Maha Shivaratri - Significance of Mahashivratri | Mahashivratri 2021 | Isha Yoga Center 

Significance of MahaShivratri | MahaShivratri 2021 | Importance of Shivratri | The Art Of Living Global 

• CERN unveils a murti of the Lord Shiva - 

Maha Shivratri: Here's why the world's largest particle physics lab CERN has Shiva's 'Nataraj' statue

• 5 things to know about Maha Shivaratri 

• Story of Maha Shivratri in English | Lord Shiva Story | Mythological Stories from Mocomi Kids

Information was developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Many members of our community observe Lunar New Year, particularly those with Asian ethnicity and ancestry.

Here is some information as well as suggestions on how we can support the Chinese community in our schools.

Lunar New Year Information

• Lunar New Year begins at sunset on the day of the second New Moon after the winter solstice, typically between January 21 and February 21, depending on the year. (Source)

• Lunar New Year is sometimes confused with Chinese New Year.  While Chinese New Year is one way that individuals may choose to observe this holiday, “Lunar New Year” is a term that includes all cultures that mark this occasion.

• Lunar New Year is a public holiday in several countries in East Asia. (Source)

• For many, the Lunar New Year is the most important observation of the year, especially in China, as it holds both cultural and historical significance.

• The festival signals the beginning of spring and unites families and friends together.

• It is traditional for families to thoroughly clean their homes to “sweep away” any ill-fortune and to make way for incoming good luck. (Source)  Homes are thoroughly spring-cleaned and decorated with touches of crimson everywhere–in the lanterns hung by the gates, in the spring couplets adorning doorways and in the bright ribbons adorning kumquat plants, their yellow fruit symbolising “gold” or prosperity. (Source)

• It is a common activity to briefly visit relatives, friends and neighbors during the day of Lunar New Year. People will give good wishes to each other. For those celebrating Chinese New Year, common phrases are Xin nian kuai le/San nin fai lok (Happy New Year) and Gong xi fa cai/Gong hey fat choi (be prosperous).

• Some families will visit their deceased relatives’ gravesites near in the days prior to the New Year to provide them best wishes in the afterlife.

• Red is undoubtedly the colour of the season. You’ll see it in the scarlet paper packets filled with money that are given to children and younger relatives. You’ll see it in the bright hues of the brand new clothes people are wearing. (Source)

• The Reunion Dinner is held on the eve of the new year. Family members rush back home (sometimes from very far away) in order to share this one most important meal of the year with loved ones. (Source)

• Special food: Dumplings (Jiao Zi) is a traditional food people eat on Lunar New Year in northern China. (source) Year cake (sweet rice cake) is another traditional food for New Year in southern China. (source)

• In China, the Spring Festival is considered the biggest human migration in the world as over 400 million people leave the cities and return to their rural homes across the country. (Source)  Chinese communities around the world, and particularly in Hong Kong, come alive with color, fragrance, music, and celebrations over this holiday. (Source)

• Many TV stations in China televise galas to mark the transition to the Chinese New Year.  The shows last for several hours prior to midnight and continue into the hour after midnight on New Year’s Eve.  The galas incorporate performances and appearances by prominent entertainers.  Watching these galas on New Year’s Eve has become a popular activity. Even though the official gala of the Chinese government has the longest history and the biggest influence, the galas from local stations (Hunan, Liaoning, and Beijing TV stations, etc.) have been getting popular in the past decades. (Source)

• There are many local performances and celebration parades by local East Asian communities all over the world during this period of time. 

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• A warm greeting is always welcome.

• Remember that Chinese New Year is just one version of the Lunar New Year.

• Some holiday customs can be performed in classrooms, such as red paper-cuts and couplets decorating doors and windows. (Source)

• Students can create decorations for Lunar New Year with fun and interactive activities like paper/stencil cutting, calligraphy, and door banners. (Source)

• Classes may learn about traditional food of Lunar New Year. (Source)

Additional Resources

• Celebrate Chinese New Year

• Bet You Didn’t Know: Chinese New Year (video)

• 2021 Spring Festival Gala (video)

• Jackie Chan & Ensemble Perform “A Better Tomorrow” (video)

Information originally developed in collaboration with Kan Chai, May Liu, Wenlong Yang, Yu Wu, and Seri Latiff for the Lexington Public School community.

Mardi Gras (also known as Shrove Tuesday) is the final day of Carnival (also known as Shrovetide or Fastelavn); it thus falls on the day before the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday," reflecting the practice of the last night of consuming rich, fatty foods in preparation for the Christian fasting season of Lent, during which the consumption of such foods is avoided. (Source)

As many in our community know, Ramadan is a month-long holiday.   This is an important month/holiday for Muslims around the world.  Here is some information as well as suggestions on how we can support the Muslim and fasting community in our schools.

Please see this slideshow created by the LHS Muslim Student Association for more information, including ways to support students.

Ramadan Information

• Over one billion Muslims throughout the world (and 50,000 Muslims in the Boston area).

• Ramadan is observed during the ninth month in the Islamic Lunar Calendar.

• As part of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) with prayer, visiting each other’s homes, special meals and gifts for children. 

• During the month of Ramadan, Muslims who are physically able usually fast.  This means they don’t eat or drink anything from dawn to dusk.  Young people often begin fasting as teenagers. Fasting ranges from 29 to 30 days.

• Fasting allows self-reflection, spiritual growth, and empathizing with the less fortunate. Ramadan is not a period of suffering or atonement. This practice is not imposed, but rather learnt and acquired.

• Not all Muslims fast and or observe other practices just like not all members of any religious or cultural group observe all practices.  Ramadan is an important time of year.

• For most Muslims, Ramadan ends and Eid begins when the moon is sighted (usually in Saudi Arabia, but some Muslims wait to see when their home country or heritage site the moon), although some may observe a day or two later.

• During Ramadan, Muslims give out the obligatory zakat fitrah (religious tithe), which is collected by mosques and distributed to the poor and needy. The act is considered to be a personal responsibility for Muslims, to ease economic hardship for other believers. (Source)

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Remember that when someone is fasting, breakfast begins before sunrise so people will be up very early in the day and may be quite tired by the end of the day.

• A warm greeting is always welcome. You can extend greetings by saying: “Happy Ramadan,” “Ramadan Mubarak” (blessed Ramadan), or “Ramadan Karim” (generous Ramadan).  Similarly, for Eid-ul-Fitr we say “Happy Eid” or “Eid Mubarak.”

• Prayer: Mid-day prayer (Zuhr prayers) typically falls during school hours, so students may need 7-10 minutes to perform these prayers in a private space.

• Assessments: Avoid scheduling assessments or events (such as field trips) on Eid ul-Fitr. Providing additional time to any student observing Ramadan during assessments given during Ramadan if a student requests it.  

• Mealtimes: Students observing Ramadan should have the option to study and/or read in the library during their assigned snack or lunch period or recess (if too hot outside).

• Physical Education: Students observing Ramadan have the option to be excused from participating in physical education if they choose to do so. Alternative assignments could be provided.

• Outdoors: When Ramadan falls during the warmer months of the year, be mindful in situations that involve extended hours in the heat. Providing an indoor alternative, if students request.

• Libraries: Provide books about Ramadan.

Information originally developed by Nadine Tassabehji, PhD, RD, LDN, for the Fiske School Community; updated and revised with contributions from Sara Sheikh,  Nadine Tassabehji, Seri Latiff, and Amber Iqbal.

Lent is the solemn Christian religious observance in the liturgical year commemorating the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert and enduring temptation by Satan, according to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, before beginning his public ministry. Lent is usually observed in the Catholic, Lutheran, Moravian, Anglican, United Protestant and Orthodox Christian traditions, among others. Some Anabaptist, Baptist, Methodist, Reformed (including certain Continental Reformed, Presbyterian and Congregationalist churches), and nondenominational Christian churches also observe Lent, although many churches in these traditions do not. (Source)

Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from annihilation at the hands of an official of the Achaemenid Empire named Haman, as it is recounted in the Book of Esther (usually dated to the 5th century BCE). (Source)

Learn more with these videos:

• The Purim Story in 4 Minutes: Go Esther!

• What is Purim? An Introduction to the Jewish Holiday

Lantern Festival is a cultural event that marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and the first full moon of the lunary calendar. In some celebrations, observers set out colorful lanterns, eat tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls), and participate in cultural activities like the lion and dragon dances. 

Holi (HO-lee) is a colorful festival which welcomes the arrival of spring and the harvests it brings. Holi also celebrates triumph over divisiveness and negativity. While Hindu legends connected to the origin of Holi vary, the messages of goodness, renewal, and love are always the same. Many celebrate by tossing colored powders and dyed water to color each other. Some Hindus celebrate by lighting bonfires and eating festive foods. One of the largest festivals in the world, Holi is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.

Information

• The first day of Holi signifies the importance of Vishnu, the Hindu God, in protecting us from evil. A prince named Prahlad, who refused to worship his father (the King) and worshipped Vishnu instead, was considered a traitor by his father. He arranged for a demoness to burn the prince alive, but Vishnu protected the boy and instead made sure the demoness got burnt alive.

• The second day of Holi signifies the playfulness of Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu on earth. It involves spraying colored powder or colored water on each other in an open space, regardless of economic status or social status, in an atmosphere of playfulness and camaraderie within the community.

• Most festivals in the Sanatana Dharma (commonly known as Hinduism) are aligned with the seasons with many marking a change of season. Holi is no exception and marks the transition from Winter to Spring. 

• Holi is celebrated on the full moon day (called Pournima) of the Phalgun month according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This day usually falls between the end of February and the middle of March. 

• On this day, a big bonfire is lit signifying the burning of all evil. There are many legends about the origin of Holi. One of the famous legends about this bonfire is the story of Holika. Holika was the sister of the evil king, Hiranyakashyapu. Hiranyakashyapu had a pious son, Prahlad, who was devoted to Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashyapu detested his son’s devotion as he considered himself to be greater than any god and had ordered his subjects to only worship him. When his own son refused this and continued worshiping Vishnu, Hiranyakashyapu tried to kill him many times but each time Prahlad was saved by Vishnu’s grace. His sister, Holika had a boon that she would not be harmed by fire so Hiranyakashyapu asked her to sit in a bonfire with Prahlad on her lap so that Prahlad would be burnt to ashes but Holika would remain unscathed by the power of her boon. However, as the bonfire was lit, there was an Akashvani (divine voice from the skies) announcing that Holika’s boon was only valid so long as she did not misuse it and she was doing just that so the fire burnt her to ashes while Prahlad remained unscathed immersed in singing Vishnu’s praises. The bonfire on Holi has been lit ever since then on this day as a reminder that good always triumphs over evil.

• Like all festivals food forms an important part and sweets and dishes are made from what is seasonally available. In Maharashtra, the local sweet made on this day is called Puran Poli. It contains the goodness of lentils such as chana dal (Bengal gram), which is a good source of fiber and folate apart from Vitamins A, B, and D. Traditionally, Puran Poli is also prepared with spices like cardamom and nutmeg which are very rich in nutrients.

• There is a second part of Holi as well which is called Rang-Panchami. Rang means color and Panchami is the fifth day in the lunar calendar after a full or new moon. 

• The fifth day after the Phalgun Pournima or Holi is celebrated as Rang Panchami. 

• On this day, people throw colors and coloured water on each other to celebrate the burst of Spring colors soon to follow thus welcoming Spring. 

• Holi is a popular festival across the world and is also celebrated in Nepal, Australia, Mauritius, Guyana, Surinam, Trinidad, and Tobago along with many other countries where the Indian diaspora is found.

• Holi is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and people from other communities.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Have a celebration with colorful drawings in elementary school, washable colored powder in small quantities outdoors for different grades.

• Wish students celebrating this festival a “Happy Holi.”

• Do colorful activities like painting, tie dyes, face painting, art with colored paper.

• It is also typical to celebrate the festival by dressing in white clothes, throwing color powder and using water guns, balloons filled with colored water to color each other.

• Celebrate by joining a Holi celebration at a park, a local temple, or community center.

Additional Information

• Holi: The story of Holika and Prahad (BBC)

• 5 things to know about Holi 

• Holi Toolkit 

• Dharmic Days & Hindu Holidays

Information originally developed in collaboration with Kinnari Kher and Indian Americans of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women's rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.] Spurred on by the universal female suffrage movement, IWD originated from labor movements in North America and Europe during the early 20th century. (Source)

Saint Patrick's Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious celebration held on 17 March, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland. (Source)

Many local residents celebrate Irish culture on St. Patrick's Day.  It is an important day for those of Irish-American heritage.  People celebrate by wearing green, eating traditional foods (such as corned beef and cabbage), and listening to/performing Irish folk music. 

Day of Silence is GLSEN's annual day of action to spread awareness about the effects of the bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) students. In the United States, students take a day-long vow of silence to symbolically represent the silencing of LGBTQ students. (Source)

Additional Information

• Day of Silence, GLSEN

Ugadi or Yugadi, also known as Samvatsarādi (meaning "beginning of the year"), is New Year's Day according to the Hindu calendar and is celebrated in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Goa in India. It is festively observed in these regions on the first day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Chaitra. This typically falls in late March or early April of the Gregorian calendar. It also falls during the Tamil month of either Panguni or Chithrai, sometimes on the day after Amavasya with 27th Nakshatra Revati. Ugadi day is pivoted on the first New Moon after March Equinox. (Source)

Eid al-Fitr (or Eid ul-Fitr) marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims.  For more information on Ramadan, please see this section. 

Eid al-Fitr Information

• Eid al-Fitr is the earlier of the two official holidays celebrated in Islam.  It marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramdan.  Many Muslims will come together on this date for an Eid prayer in the morning in the mosques. (Source)

• Eid is an Arabic word which means feast, festival or holiday.  In Southeast Asia where many Muslims live, it is called Hari Raya in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.  In Indonesia it is called Lebaran. (Source)

• This is a time for forgiveness within the Muslim community and a time for strengthening bonds among relatives and friends. (Source)

• Many Muslim families in Lexington are from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, North Africa, and the Arab world, although some in our community do come from Southeast Asia. Some Muslim families in Lexington are also from North America, Europe, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Some of our Boston resident children in the METCO program are Muslims, and African Americans are the second largest ethnic group among the US Muslim community.

• Celebrations of Eid differ from one region to another depending on the differnt cultures of those practicing Islam.  For example, in Southeast Asia and some Arab countries, families will gather, similar to how Americans observe Thanksgiving, and have a special meal on the first day of Eid.

• In Singapore and Malaysia, school children will gather together and visit each other’s houses at a later date, usually on a weekend.  In some communities, students even visit teachers at their homes.

• Some common practices in the US is to give children gifts, including new clothes or cash, on Eid.

• For most Muslims, Ramadan ends and Eid begins when the new moon is sighted, which means Muslims might not know the day of Eid until the night before.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• The proper greeting for Eid is “Eid Mubarak” (Eed Moo-bar-ack), this translates to wishing the person a blessed Eid

• Many Muslim children will go to early morning prayer with their families, followed by celebrations. Absences should be excused.

• As noted in the guidance for Ramadan, completing major assignments or assessments on the day students are celebrating Eid (or the day following) is very challenging.  Avoid this practice whenever possible.

Additional Resources

• Eid: How Is the Start of the Muslim Festival Determined?

• Eid al-Fitr Date Confused By New Moon Sightings around the World

• The following are books about Eid and Ramadan; some are available in our school libraries:

  • Aisha's Eid Mubarak and the Wonderful Dresses

  • Rashad's Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr

  • Once Upon an Eid

Information originally developed in collaboration with Seri Latiff, Putik Burhanudin, Sara Sheikh, Syed Rizvi, Abeer Shawer, Nadine Tassabehji, ​​and Alice Verticelli for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Nowruz is sometimes referred to as Persian New Year, although it is also widely celebrated in many other countries, such as Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Turkey, India, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. It is a major celebration for many who observe and signifies the start of spring. You will find different ways of spelling Norouz on the internet, including Nowruz, Norooz, and No-Rooz.  The word, regardless of how it is spelled, means New Day in Farsi. 

This day signifies the beginning of Spring. It usually occurs on March 20th or 21st, depending on the occurrence of the vernal equinox. The United Nations officially recognized this day as the International Day of Nowruz.

Persian New Year Information

• The holiday marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring, and the rebirth of nature. 

• It is celebrated not only in Iran but also in many countries across Asia.

• This celebration is over 3,000 years old

• 2021 on the Gregorian calendar corresponds to 1400 on the Persian calendar. 

• The most important activity in the celebration of Norouz is making the haft-seen table. Literally, the haft-seen table means a “table of seven things that start with the letter S.” Here are some of the items and what they symbolize: Sabzeh (sprouted wheat grass), for rebirth and renewal of nature; Sumac, for the sunrise and the spice of life; Senjed (sweet dry fruit of the lotus tree), for love and affection; Serkeh (vinegar), for patience and age; Seeb (apples), for health and beauty; Seer (garlic), for good health; Samanu (wheat pudding), for fertility and the sweetness of life

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Students may appreciate discussing the science behind this day and the symbolism and the great history behind Norouz.

Additional Information

• Celebrating Nowruz (Harvard University Center for Middle Eastern Studies)

• Norooz, the Iranian New Year (Persian Touring)

• UNESCO recognizes Nowruz as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, emphasizing its deep historical and cultural significance across multiple nations: UNESCO Nowruz Article.

• The United Nations officially recognizes March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz, acknowledging its significance across various cultures. https://www.un.org/en/observances/international-nowruz-day

• The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is hosting a Nowruz celebration with cultural performances, art activities, and educational exhibits. This could be a wonderful opportunity for students and families to engage with the holiday firsthand. https://www.mfa.org/event/special-event/nowruz

Information was originally developed in collaboration with Devangi Bhargava (LPS ‘28), Mahsa Rohani, Laleh Firouzabadian, Vafa Guliyeva for the Lexington Public School community.

Ram Navami (Raa-um na-va-mee) is the celebration of the birth of Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu who is depicted in the Indian Epic, Ramayana. It is celebrated during the month of March or April. Rama is considered the embodiment of dharma (righteousness). Some Hindus choose to fast for nine days leading up to this day, and celebrate by depicting the Ramayana through song, dance, and dramas. People also sing songs dedicated to Rama and read his stories from the Ramayana during this time.

Information

• Ram Navami or Rama Navami celebrates the birth of Rama who is the seventh avatar of Vishnu. 

• The festival is celebrated in the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) of Chaitra which is the first month in the Hindu calendar. This typically occurs in March or April of the Gregorian calendar. This festival is part of the Chaitra Navaratri which is one of the 4 Navaratris (9-night) celebrations. Ram Navami is celebrated on the last day of Chaitra Navaratri. Navami means the ninth day.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Ram Navami” (Raa-um) or “Happy Rama Navami” (Raa-ma).

Additional Resources

• Ram Navami by Himalayan Academy

• Ram Janmabhoomi Ayodhya FAQs - Hindu American Foundation 

• Indian Supreme Court verdict on Ram Janmabhoomi a victory for archeology, history, Hindus and Muslims - Hindu American Foundation 

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Mahavir Jayanti (Maha-veer Ja-yan-ti) or Mahavir Janma Kalyanak is one of the most important festivals of Jainism. On this day the birth of Mahavira, the 24th and final spiritual teacher is celebrated.  It is celebrated in the month of March or April. Born as Vardhamana into a royal Jain family, he became known as Mahavira as he attained spiritual awakening and became an ascetic. He preached the observance of ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), aparigraha (non-attachment) and brahmacharya (chastity) as the requirements for spiritual liberation. During Mahavir Jayanti, the five auspicious events of Mahavira's life are re-enacted. Jains visit his temples and pray for blessings.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Mahavir Jayanti“ (Maha-veer Ja-yan-ti) or “Mahavir Janma Kalyanak” (Maha-veer Jan-ma Kal-ya-nuck).

• Students may wish to practice Ahimsa (non-violence) by eating meatless meals. You can also join them by practicing the same.

Additional Resources

• Lord Mahavir and His Teachings - JAINA-JainLink 

• Guide to Hindu Holidays, Festivals, and Other Dharmic Days 

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

International Transgender Day of Visibility (also called TDOV, Transgender Day of Visibility) is an annual event occurring on March 31 dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a celebration of their contributions to society. (Source)

Additional Information

• Transgender Day of Visibility, GLSEN

• Why Transgender Day of Visibility Is Important

• White House Proclamation on Transgender Day of Visibility

Passover, also called Pesach, is a major Jewish holiday that celebrates the exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, which occurs on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, the first month of Aviv, or spring. (Source)

Information

• This is a several days holiday in which Jews retell the story of Exodus--liberation from bondage and journey to freedom. It is also a time for making connections to others who have suffered and continue to suffer as slaves. A part of this observance is a dietary change to no leavened bread or bread products, instead eating matzah. There are ritual meals, Seders, which are the focal point of the telling of Exodus and passing down lessons from one generation to the next.

• Jews were also slaves in Egypt. The main idea of this holiday is teaching about freedom. It's also a holiday that has a lot of symbols, a family oriented holiday that is commemorated with a meal, reading of the Passover story, singing songs, eating unleavened bread, and welcoming Spring. 

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• There may be some students whose families are more strictly observant and have some days they cannot do work and who may undergo a major cleaning out of their entire house to remove any crumbs of leavened bread during the days just prior to the holidays start. Most families will host a large feast called seders, that can last several hours.  Dates of these feasts are not fixed.  Many other families will have more relaxed practices. Educators should ask questions and not make assumptions about the practices of any particular family.

Information originally developed in collaboration with Danit Netzer, Rebecca Smerling, and Sara Bothwell Allen for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Good Friday is a holiday observed by many Christians in our community.

Good Friday Information

• Good Friday is celebrated by approximately 2.5 billion Christians.

• Christians are monotheistic and many believe that God walked the earth in the person of Jesus Christ; Good Friday is a day of mourning and sorrow over the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.

• For most who observe, Good Friday is a day of quiet reflection and prayer.  It is also a day of gratitude for the supreme sacrifice made by Jesus Christ.

• Observations include evening services Friday and the preceding Thursday evening.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Avoid scheduling school-sponsored or athletic events after school.

• Reduce large projects and tests in the early days of the following week would assist students in participating in the numerous communal events (services plus family gathering) that take place surrounding Thursday through Sunday of this weekend.

Information originally developed in collaboration with David Manuel and Lindsay Hardy for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Easter, also called Pascha, Zatik or Resurrection Sunday is a Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. (Source) The supernatural resurrection from the dead of Jesus, which Easter celebrates, is one of the chief tenets of the Christian faith. 

Byzantine Christians (Eastern Christians who follow the Rite of Constantinople: Orthodox Christians and Greek-Catholics) call this day "Great and Holy Friday," or simply "Great Friday." Because the sacrifice of Jesus through his crucifixion is recalled on this day, the Divine Liturgy (the sacrifice of bread and wine) is never celebrated on Great Friday, except when this day coincides with the Great Feast of the Annunciation, which falls on the fixed date of 25 March (for those churches which follow the traditional Julian Calendar, 25 March currently falls on 7 April of the modern Gregorian Calendar). Also on Great Friday, the clergy no longer wear the purple or red that is customary throughout Great Lent, but instead don black vestments. There is no "stripping of the altar" on Holy and Great Thursday as in the West; instead, all of the church hangings are changed to black, and will remain so until the Divine Liturgy on Great Saturday. (Source)

Both Orthodox Easter and Easter Sunday are Christian observances where believers celebrate the resurrection of Jesus; it's the most important event in the Christian Calendar. Orthodox churches in some countries including Greece, Cyprus and Romania base their Easter date on the Julian calendar. (Source)

Information

• There is a mourning period for the church before the Easter celebration.

• Many congregants in Greek Orthodox services live the services. As an example, on holy service some Greek Orthodox church members will bring Jesus on the cross down to the floor and the congregation will either kiss his feet or brow, and during Good Friday afternoon service, they may take Jesus off the cross and members of the church will wrap him in a white sheet. Good Friday night they may have a funeral service and walk Jesus’ tomb outside around the neighborhood. On holy Saturday night they may receive the holy light from Jerusalem, go outside, and chant, “Christ has risen, truly he has risen.” Many families attend dinner at 2am after the service ends and then they have a large family gathering during the day. 

• Orthodox Good Friday, also known as “Great and Holy Friday” or simply “Great Friday,” is the Friday before Orthodox Easter. Many community members who observe this day do not work or attend school on this day in order to prepare for services that take place that evening. Many children will attend a retreat during the day as well.

• For many who observe, Orthodox Easter is considered a bigger holiday than Christmas.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Avoid scheduling assessments on Orthodox Good Friday.

• Keep in mind that children may be fasting for forty days plus Holy Week leading up to Easter, and during Holy Week before Easter, children may be attending nightly religious services in church, so it may be difficult to maintain their homework load.

Additional Resources

• Holy Week (Greek Orthodox Acrhdiosces of America)

Information originally developed in collaboration with Anastasia Sarantos-Le for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Vaisakhi, also pronounced Baisakhi as well as Basoa (among Dogras), marks the first day of the month of Vaisakh and is traditionally celebrated annually on 13 April and sometimes 14 April. It is seen as a celebration of spring harvest primarily in Northern India. Further, other Indian cultures and diaspora celebrate this festival too. Whilst it is culturally significant as a festival of harvest, in many parts of India, Vaisakhi is also the date for the Indian Solar New Year. Some 5297 year ago, on this day Raja Shaktikaran Dogra, also known as Raja Shastri, started the Shastri Calendar alias Dogra-Pahari Calendar on this day, so this day has special historical relationship with the Dogras. (Source)

Patriots' Day is an annual event, formalized as a legal holiday or a special observance day in six states, commemorating the battles of Lexington, Concord, and Menotomy, some of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. (Source)

April 24 is Armenian Remembrance Day in observance of those who died in the Armenian Genocide.  President Biden issued this statement in 2021, which includes a detailed history of the observance.  

Vesak also known as Buddha Jayanti is celebrated by Buddhists. It is celebrated as the birth, death and enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama also known as Buddha. It is believed that all 3 events happened on the same day during his lifetime. It is celebrated in May or June. It is a day of celebration and giving. People donate money and gifts to those in need.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Vesak.”

Additional Resources

• Guide to Hindu Holidays, Festivals, and Other Dharmic Days

• Vesak Day | United Nations 

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

The National Day of Reason is observed by some atheists in our community on the first Thursday in May.  Atheism is a moral and ethical equal to faiths that believe in god(s) or spirit(s).  Many atheists believe in their strong moral and ethical compass, and see their identities as strong and compassionate as those of deistic faiths.  Atheists often define this aspect of their identity as one in which lacks a belief in god(s).

National Day of Reason Information

• Those who observe this day spend time speaking with religious friends and family to discuss their beliefs.

• As of 2019, approximately 4% of American adults identify as atheists, which is part of a larger 28% contingent of Americans who do not identify with any specific religious identity. (Source)

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Students who identify as atheist may feel denigrated or stigmatized for their identity.

• Affirmation that atheism is a valuable belief system is important for students.

• Stress that most who identify as atheists view the world through a rationalist, reason-based, secular humanist perspective.

Information originally developed in collaboration with Brian Hammond and Christian Valencia for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Shavuot combines two major religious observances. First is the grain harvest of the early summer. Second is the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai seven weeks after the exodus from Egypt. The first determines the ritual for the holiday, which was one of the three pilgrimage festivals of ancient Israel, while the second determines the significance of the holiday for Judaism, tying it in with the seminal event of Jewish religious memory, namely the entering into a covenant between God and Israel. Many Jews celebrate by eating cheesecake! (Source)

Information developed in collaboration with the Lexington staff member Jennifer Whitman for the Lexington Public School community.

The Day of Arafah is an Islamic holiday that falls on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah of the lunar Islamic Calendar. It is the holiest day in the Islamic calendar, the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage, and the day after is the first day of the major Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha. (Source)

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Some older students may travel for pilgrimage but right now this is not an option due to COVID.

Additional Resources

• Islamic Society of North America

Information originally developed in collaboration with Nadine Tassabehji for the Lexington Public Schools community.

Eid al-Adha, the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is the latter of the two major holidays celebrated in Islam. It follows the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, the holiest place for muslims around the world. This Eid (holiday) honors the willingness of Ibrahim, known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaisim, to sacrifice his son Ismael as an act of obedience to God's command. Before Ibrahim could sacrifice his son, however, God provided a lamb to sacrifice instead. (Source)

Eid al-Adha Information

• Eid al-Adha, or the feast of sacrifice, is celebrated on the 10th day of the month of Dhul Hijja as per the Islamic lunar calendar. It marks the culmination of the hajj which is an annual pilgrimage to the city of Mecca. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. It consists of several ceremonies to symbolize the essential concepts of islamic faith and commemorate the trials of prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in Christianity and Judaism) and his family while they established Kaaba in the city of Mecca as a center of monotheism.

• Eid-ul-Adha, in many ways, is the bigger Eid, usually lasting three to four days, and celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide. The holiday begins on the 10th day of the Muslim calendar lunar month of Dhul-Hijja, the month during which some Muslims perform Hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca.  During this pilgrimage Muslims commemorate the Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God and the struggles he faced along the way to settle his family in Makkah.

• The broader connection with this great Prophet is significant because he and his son Ismail were the first to re-establish the Kaba, the House devoted to the worship of One God, a pillar of monotheism. Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, reformed Hajj as a commemoration and commitment to Prophet Ibrahim’s struggle for faith in One God for humanity.

• Eid-ul-Adha also reflects the unity of all who come together through Hajj, which is performed in the same Islamic month, Dhul Hijjah, as this holiday. Muslims from all around the world, including the United States, travel to Mecca to perform the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. Two million people perform Hajj annually. It brings together people from all over the world irrespective of their nationality, ethnicity, race and class in a beautiful reflection of the unity of humanity. Over the centuries, Muslim pilgrims have shared their thoughts and recollections about this incredible journey of a lifetime, which is also a pillar of Islam. But when it comes to explaining how Hajj reflects unity in diversity, perhaps few said it as beautifully as Malcolm X in his l964 letter from Mecca: "I have never before witnessed such sincere hospitality and the practice of true brotherhood as I have seen it here in Arabia. There are Muslims here of all colors and from every part of this earth. During the past days here in Mecca, while understanding the rituals of the Hajj, I have eaten, from the same plate, drank from the same glass and slept on the same bed or rug with Kings, potentates and other forms of rulers, with fellow Muslims whose skin was the whitest of white, whose eyes was the bluest of blue, and whose hair was the blondest of blond. I could look into their blue eyes and see that they regarded me as the same (Brothers), because their faith in One God  had actually removed “white” from their mind, which automatically changed their attitude and their behavior (towards) people of other colors."

• Although only pilgrims participate in Hajj, Muslims all around the world join them in celebrating Eid al-Adha. They wear their nicest clothing and attend a special prayer.  Anyone who can afford to sacrifices domestic animals to symbolize Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismael as an act of obedience to God. The sacrificial meat is distributed to family, friends, neighbors and the poor and needy. People visit each others’ homes and partake in festivities. Children receive gifts and sweets on the occasion.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Many students who observe the holiday will want to take this day off school to celebrate with friends and family and be able to go to early morning prayers.

Additional Resources

• Significance of Eid al-Adha (Celebrity Nation)

Information originally developed in collaboration with Amber Iqbal, Summaiya Iqbal, Abeer Shawer, Nadine Tassabehji and Umme Arusha for the Lexington Public School community.

The Islamic New Year, also called the Hijri New Year or Arabic New Year, is the day that marks the beginning of a new lunar Hijri year, and is the day on which the year count is incremented. The first day of the Islamic year is observed by most Muslims on the first day of the month of Muharram. (Source)

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans. It is also often observed for celebrating African-American culture. Originating in Galveston, Texas, it has been celebrated annually on June 19 in various parts of the United States since 1865. (Source)

Muḥarram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is one of the four sacred months of the year when warfare is forbidden. It is held to be the second holiest month after Ramadan. (Source)

Independence Day, known colloquially as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States which commemorates the ratification of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. (Source)

July 8 is Massachusetts Emancipation Day, also known as Quock Walker Day, in recognition of the significant contributions made by Quock Walker to abolish slavery in the commonwealth and the supreme judicial court decisions, which came to be known as the Quock Walker Cases, that culminated with Chief Justice William Cushing of the supreme judicial court declaring that slavery was incompatible with the constitution of the commonwealth and recommending that the day be observed in an appropriate manner by the people. (Source)

Guru Purnima (gu-ru pour-nee-maa) is a unique festival as it celebrates the teachers in one’s life. It is also called Vyasa Purnima after Maharishi Veda Vyasa who compiled and wrote a lot of Vedic literature, prominent among which is the great Indian epic, Mahabharata. It is celebrated in June-July. Guru is a Sanskrit word where Gu refers to darkness and Ru refers to removal of the darkness of ignorance (Avidyaa). Hence Guru is one who dispels the darkness of ignorance with the light of knowledge. Besides spiritual teachers, all teachers are also honored during this festival. The festival is also celebrated in other religions such as Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. It is a major festival in Buddhism because it was on this day that Gautama Buddha after achieving Enlightenment gave his first teachings to his disciples. In Jainism, Mahavira taught his first disciple on this day. In Sikhism, the festival honors the ten Sikh Gurus and the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred book of Sikhs.

Information

• Guru Purnima is also called Vyasa Purnima after Maharishi Veda Vyasa who wrote the Great Indian Epic, Mahabharata, the 18 Puranas and compiled the Vedas, ancient Hindu scriptures on meditation, philosophy, spiritual knowledge and rituals. 

• It is celebrated on the Full Moon day (Purnima) in the Ashada month of the Hindu Calendar. This occurs between June-July in the Gregorian Calendar.

• Guru is a Sanskrit word derived from the words Gu and Ru. Gu refers to darkness and  Ru refers to someone who removes darkness. Therefore, a Guru is someone who removes the darkness of ignorance (Avidhya) and helps one attain the ultimate transcendental Knowledge. Besides spiritual teachers, all teachers are also honored during this festival.

• The Guru-Shishya (Teacher-Student) tradition is of utmost importance in the Hindu tradition where a dedicated Guru (Teacher) mentors and transmits knowledge to the devoted Shisya (Student/Seeker) after initiation.

• Guru Purnima is a festival that remembers and honors the lineage of teachers (Guru-Parampara) over millenia who have shaped our thoughts. There are many legends associated with this festival. It is said that Shiva as Dakshinamurti, the ultimate Guru sat under a banyan tree and taught the Saptarishis (7 Sages) who passed on their knowledge to the rest of humanity.

• It is celebrated in neighboring countries of India such as Nepal and Bhutan. In Nepal, Guru Purnima is celebrated as Teacher’s day. On this day, students offer gifts, garlands and sweets to their teachers and get their blessings.

• The festival is also celebrated in other religions such as Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. It is a major festival in Buddhism because it was on this day that Gautama Buddha after achieving Enlightenment gave his first teachings to his disciples. In Jainism, Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara taught his first disciple on this day. In Sikhism, the festival honors the ten Sikh Gurus and the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred book of Sikhs.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Students may want to wish their teachers a “Happy Guru Purnima” (“Gu-ru” rhymes with “Peru” followed by Pour-nee-maa) (Guru - Guru गुरु guru   Sanskrit Pronunciation; Purnima - Purnima Pronunciation Sanskrit पूर्णिमा pūrṇimā)

• Students may want to celebrate their teachers and leaders on this day by offering sweets and gifts.

Additional Resources

• Guru Purnima by Himalayan Academy

• Guru Purnima: the day to pay respects to the guru - Hindu American Foundation 

• The Significance of Guru Purnima | By Swami Purnachaitanya

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Onam is an annual Hindu harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. A major annual event for Keralites, it is the official festival of the state and includes a spectrum of cultural events. Drawing from Hindu legends, Onam commemorates King Mahabali. (Source)

Raksha Bandhan (ruk-SHA-bun-dhun) is celebrated in August and is a holiday which celebrates sibling bonds. Sisters tie a decorative, sacred thread or amulet called a rakhi on the right wrist of their brothers (often including distant cousins and friends considered honorary brothers) followed by prayers for their protection and well-being while sweets are exchanged. In return, brothers give their sisters small tokens or gifts of appreciation. Today, Raksha Bandhan has evolved into a holiday empowering significant relationships between cousins, same-sex siblings, and friends.

Information

• Originating from Sanskrit, the term Raksha Bandhan translates as “bond of protection”. 

• Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on Shravana Purnima which is the full moon day of the Shravana month in the Hindu calendar. Shravana is the fifth lunar month in Hindu calendar (July-August).

• The origin of this festival can be attributed to a very ancient legend where Sachi, wife of Indra (the king of gods), ties a sacred thread, called Rakhi (Raa-khee), on Indra’s wrist. In the war that followed with the demons, Indra achieved victory over the demons. 

• Another legend which is related to Rakhi mentions that Lord Yama, the God of death, blessed his sister and promised that all sisters tying Rakhi on their brother’s wrist on the auspicious day of Shravana Purnima would have his blessings and lead a long life.

• One of the most popular folklore is about when Lord Krishna cut his finger. Draupadi, wife of the Pandavas (the five brothers who ruled the city), who considered Krishna to be like a brother, immediately tore off a piece of her sari and tied the cloth around his bleeding finger.

• Before Raksha Bandhan even begins, a sister can get into the mood of the holiday by looking for a particular talisman or amulet she thinks her brother might like. Even this simple activity helps to cultivate a consciousness of appreciation for a brother’s unique personality. On the actual day, sisters customarily perform arati by lighting a small oil lamp and offering it to the family deity. Praying for the well-being of the brother, she then applies tilak (religious mark) on his forehead. After tying the rakhi on his wrist, she traditionally places a sweet in his mouth. The brother then completes the custom by reciprocating in the ritual feeding and giving his sister a gift. 

• Raksha Bandhan originated with a wife tying the “Rakhi” as a bond of protection on her husband’s wrist.

• Later evolved to a brother-sister festival where the sister ties this sacred thread around her brother’s wrist. 

• Now further evolved in modern times where friends, sisters or anyone can tie this sacred thread to a loved one to create a bond of protection and love.

• Raksha Bandhan is also celebrated in South Asia, and in other parts of the world significantly influenced by Hindu culture.

• In Nepal, Raksha Bandhan is referred to as Janai Purnima or Rishitarpani, and involves a sacred thread ceremony. It is observed by both Hindus and Buddhists of Nepal. The Hindu men change the thread they wear around their chests (janai), while in some parts of Nepal girls and women tie rakhi on their brother's wrists.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Students that celebrate this day can be wished as “Happy Rakshabandhan” (ruk-SHA-bun-dhun) or “Happy Rakhi.” 

• Students can make and tie friendship bands around each other’s wrists.

• This is a good day to express gratitude to others.

Additional Resources

• Pronunciation: https://www.pronouncenames.com/pronounce/rakshabandhan 

• 5 things to know about Raksha Bandhan

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Krishna Janmashtami (krish-NAH jun-maash-ta-mee) celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu and one of the most endeared deities. It falls between August and September. He played a central role in the Indian epic, Mahabharata where he teaches the Bhagavad Gita which is spiritual and philosophical guidance for humankind. The day after Janmashtami is followed by Dahi handi where earthen pots of yogurt or butter are hung from a height and a human pyramid is formed to break the hanging pots. Krishna is said to have loved butter and yogurt so people celebrate Dahi handi in his remembrance.  Lord Krishna is regarded by many as the embodiment of bhakti or spiritual yoga. Many will sing songs or read scriptures till midnight (the time when he was born) to remember the lessons of his life.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a “Happy Janmashtami” (Jun-maash-ta-mee) or “Happy Gokulashtami” (Go-kul-ash-tami) .

• Students may chant “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna-Krishna Hare Hare"  (Ha-ray Krish-naa).

Additional Resources

• Janmashtami: the day to celebrate Krishna's birth - Hindu American Foundation 

• The Significance of Krishna Janmashtami | By Swami Purnachaitanya

• Story of Krishna Janmashtami | Krishna and Kans Story | Indian Mythology Stories by Mocomi Kids

• Himalayan Academy Publications - Holy Hindu Festivals 

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

Ganesh Chaturthi (gu-Ne-sh cha-tur-thee) also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesh. This 10-day festival usually falls between August or September. Ganesha is the God of wisdom, intellect, prosperity, good fortune, and the remover of obstacles. Born to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, his name derives from ‘gana’ meaning the common people and so his name translates to ‘Lord of the People’ as well as ‘Lord of the Ganas.’ Many recognize that Lord Ganesh brings order in this universe and worship him before embarking on a new endeavor, intellectual journey, or business enterprise. Therefore, it is common to see images or statues of him in these places.

Information

• Ganesh Chaturthi is a 10-day festival that begins on the Chaturthi (4th day) of Bhadrapada month in the Hindu Calendar. This usually falls between August or September in the Gregorian calendar.

• Ganesha murtis are installed on temporary platforms at local temples, communities and decorated with garlands and flowers. Smaller Ganesha murtis are also installed in personal Mandirs (temples) at devotees’ homes.

• Ganesha has a sweet tooth so people offer Modaks which are conical shaped rice dumplings stuffed with grated coconut and jaggery. Other offerings include Sundal (chickpeas garnished with coconut, chillies and mustard), Appam and other sweets.

• Ganesha murthis are then taken on public processions amid festivities, chanting and dancing. On the 10th day, devotees bid farewell to Ganesha with deep respect followed by Ganapati Visarjan which is the immersion of the Ganesha murti in a nearby water body. People chant in the Marathi language “Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Laukariya” which means “Goodbye Lord Ganapati, please return quickly next year”. The chant is in honor of the 4th century saint Morya Gosavi who was an ardent Ganesha devotee.

• Ganesha is the younger son of Shiva and Parvati. He has an elephant head. There is a lot of symbolism in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). The elephant head which is the largest head among land animals represents the vast intellect (Buddhi) of Ganesha.

• Ganesha is also called Vigneshwara which means the Remover of obstacles. People pray to Ganesha before they embark on any new activity or start of any ceremony to ward off difficulties and achieve success.

• Ganesh Chaturthi has been used to revive patriotic sentiments in India by various Indian leaders. In 1893, Indian freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak (also known as Lokamanya Tilak) made the festival a public affair so people could gather in public spaces to workaround the British ban on large gatherings.

• Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) has influenced many neighboring countries including East Asia and SouthEast Asia due to trade and cultural contact. Ganesha is worshiped in other religions such as Buddhism and Jainism. Ganesha is worshiped in slightly different forms across the globe. He is Kangiten or Shoten in Japan, Ts’ogsbdag in Tibet, Phra Phikanet in Thailand,  Maha-Pienne in Myanmar, Totkharour Khagan in Mongolia, Prah Kenes in Cambodia.

Suggestions for Supporting Our Students

• Wish students a very “Happy Ganesh Chaturthi” (Ga-nay-ish Cha-thur-thee) or “Vinayaka Chaturthi” (Vi-naa-ya-ka Cha-thur-thee) (Ganesha - Ganesha गणेश gaṇeśa   Sanskrit Pronunciation; Vinayaka - Vinayaka Pronunciation Sanskrit विनायक vi nāyaka; Ganesh Chaturthi - How To Pronounce Ganesh Chaturthi).

• Ask students if they installed a Ganesh murti (moor-ti) at home (Murti - Murti Pronunciation Sanskrit मूर्ति mūrti).

• Some students may bring modaks and sweets to share with fellow students and talk about the festival.

• Students may be interested in inviting others to their celebrations.

Additional Resources

• Ganesha Chaturthi: the day to celebrate Ganesha's birth - Hindu American Foundation 

• Ganesh Chaturthi by Himalayan Academy

• The Significance of Ganesh Chaturthi | By Swami Purnachaitanya

• How Lord Ganesha got his Elephant Head? | Mythological Stories from Mocomi Kids

• Ganesha worship across the world - Ganesha - Global God in a Globalised World 

• “Ganapati Bappa Morya, Pudhchya Varshi Laukariya” - 'Ganpati Bappa Moriya Purchya Varshi Laukariya'

Information developed in collaboration with the Indian Association of Lexington for the Lexington Public School community.

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