Deepavali!

Also known as Diwali, Divali and the Festival of Lights. It is a Hindu festival and official holiday in India, Malaysia and many other countries. Because we are an International School, we get to learn about and take part in the celebration of many holidays celebrated around the world. Shikha, a team member of mine, celebrates Deepavali and invited us to her home for a Deepavali celebration. Much like New Years in the states, it is celebrated with family & friends, food & drink, and fire crackers later in the evening. Naturally, it's also a time for prayer and reflection.

While I didn't have traditional Indian attire, I did put on lots of colorful bangles and a bindi. :) Hard to see, but it's there...

With Lucinda & Shikha

Alina, Ben & Adam - Adam wearing his traditional Old Navy attire 

Lovely ladies! Jackie, myself, Lucinda, PJ and Alina

The Indian food was delicious (a favorite of mine over here) and the company was wonderful!

We celebrated Deepavali at school this past Friday. Kids were invited to wear traditional Indian attire or bright, colorful clothing. Obviously, Luke and Drew took it as an opportunity to wear their favorite Nike shirts and basketball shorts, but hey, at least they were colorful. I went next door and borrowed clothing from our neighbor, who is from India. She was so kind in letting me wear something of hers. Add to it my colorful bangles and another bindi...I was ready to celebrate!

As you can see, I chose the most simple traditional attire she had. It was totally optional for staff to dress up for this. Last year I refused, this year I decided to go with it.  :)

An all school assembly of Indian music & dancing

Some fun with Tanya...

They taught us how to make a "lion" 

This girl makes me laugh! 

I'm glad I chose to participate this year and get into the spirit of Deepavali. I learned a lot from Shikha about the holiday and enjoyed seeing the lights and celebrations happening around Singapore! I wish we had made it down to Little India to see of all the decorations. In the spirit of the holiday, Adam and I went out for Indian food on Friday night with Jill and Alex. No, I did not wear that dress.

Happy Deepavali...Diwali...Divali...Festival of Lights!