Hindus urge for Diwali Holiday in Public schools in Virginia

Nevada, May 11, 2017: Diwali is one of the most significant and popular festivals in Hinduism. This festival is not only celebrated in India but across the globe by all the Hindu communities as well as the foreigners.

Hindu community is now urging all public school districts and private-charter-independent schools in Virginia to close on Diwali, most popular of their festival, which falls on October 19 this year, mentioned the punjabnewsexpress.com report.

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In the neighboring states of New York, Pennsylvania and New public school districts have already declared a holiday on the 19th of October. "It would be a step in the positive direction, as it was important to meet the religious and spiritual needs of Hindu pupils," said Hindu activist Rajan Zed.

According to Rajan, schools should make efforts to accommodate the religious requirements of Hindu students and show respect to their faith by not conducting regular business and scheduling classes on Diwali. However, the schools are of the opinion that they do not want their students to be put at an unnecessary disadvantage for missing tests/examinations/papers, assignments, class work, etc., by taking a day off to observe Diwali.

However, the schools are of the opinion that they do not want their students to be put at an unnecessary disadvantage for missing tests, examinations, papers, assignments, class work, etc., by taking a day off to observe Diwali.

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To which Rajan aptly replied that if the schools can declare the holiday on the festivals of other religions then why not Diwali. He advised schools to show honor every religion. He also said that no one should be penalized for practicing a certain religion.

Rajan has asked Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, Superintendent of Public Instruction Steven R. Staples and Board of Education President Dr. Billy K to work towards adding Diwali as an official holiday in all the state's public schools and persuading the private-charter-independent schools to follow.

He further added that Hinduism is rich in festivals and religious festivals are very dear and sacred to Hindus. This festival of lights aims at dispelling the darkness and lighting up the lives and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Therefore, along with Hindus, Sikhs and Jains and some Buddhists also celebrate Diwali.

– prepared by Nikita Tayal of NewsGram, Twitter: @NikitaTayal6