London, Tuesday, 20th November, 2012
IoJ Director, Shri Vinaybhai K Shah had co-ordinated with Mr Michael Royal, Assistant Head Master of the Central Foundation Boys’ School to to address the school assembly and explain the significance of the Indian festival of diwali. Central Foundation Boys’ School is a unique school with a 150 year history behind it. It proivides a blend of modern and traditional values and is inspired by exceptional history and the success of its alumni, whilst at the same time looking always to the future
The school assembly normally starts at 9 am with the assembly hall doors opening at 5 mins to 9 am. The assembly lasts 15 mininutesassembly When the doors were opened to over 800 pupils and staff entered whilst the Indian National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, played on the screen. Mr Royal introduced the topic of assembly as Diwali and welcomed the Institute of Jainology to the School for their the presentation on the subject.
Dr Harshad Sanghrajka wassisted by Mr Vinaybhai Shah, used a power point presentation to introduce the subject and explain the relationship of this festival to various Indic religions. In the time available, the following points were made:
* Meaning of the word Diwali
* Symbolism related to the celebration through lighting of Deepaks
* Epic of Ramayana in Hinduism ~ Return of Lord Ram from the forest
* Epic of Mahabharata in Hinduism ~ Return of Pandavas from banishment
* Why Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali ~ Release of Guru Hargobind from prison
* Shaktas, who worship Shakti ~ feminine deities , worship Durga for killing demon Mahishasur
* Jainism, Lord Mahavir, and his emancipation on Diwali day
* How Jains live their lives
Mr Royal thanked Harshad and Vinay for the assembly. Mr Vinay K Shah presented Jain literature to the School from the Institute. The School was invited to visit the Potters Bar temple in future, which was well received.