The inaugural Kids’ Diwali celebrations at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi provided cultural education, fun activities, and interactive learning experiences designed to engage young minds and hearts.
The celebrations began with over 300 children collectively participating in the sacred mahapuja ceremony, which created an atmosphere of devotion and reflection. The children prayed to bless the for happiness, wisdom, and prosperity, and learnt about the values of gratitude and devotion.
“I loved the Mahapuja! It was so peaceful and special to pray with so many other kids,” said Jap Parikh, one of the young participants.
One of the highlights of the event was a fun and captivating Ramayan drama, imparting valuable lessons on morality, bravery, and the victory of good over evil in a relatable way.
“The Ramayan drama was amazing! I loved seeing the characters come to life and learning about how good always wins,” said Reeva Karia.
In addition to the spiritual and cultural programs, a vibrant carnival provided children with an opportunity to learn through play. Featuring a variety of fun and educational games, the carnival catered to different age groups and encouraged creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
“It was such a wonderful experience for my child. He came home talking about the values he learned today. I am so grateful for these kinds of events that bring our children closer to our culture,” said Samiksha Padiyar, a parent who attended the event with her family.
The joy, gratitude, meaningful experiences and sense of connection to cultural traditions felt by the children and their families truly reflected the spirit of these celebrations.