Hindus want Diwali be declared as holiday in USA schools

Hindus have urged the school districts all over USA to add Diwali, the most important Hindu holy day, to the public schools’ holiday calendar.

Acclaimed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that it was important for Hindu families to celebrate Diwali day together at home with their children.

According to Rajan Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, Diwali, the festival of lights, aims at dispelling the darkness and lighting up the lives and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Hindus worship goddess of good fortune and beauty Lakshmi, god of wisdom and auspiciousness Ganesh, and mountain Goverdhan on this day. Also on this day, coronation of Lord Ram was held, Lord Hanuman was born, Lord Vishnu returned kingdom to monkey king Bali of Kiskindha, Lord Vishnu and goddess Lakshmi married, Lord Krishan killed demon Narakasur, and ancient king Vikramaditya was crowned. On this day of forgiveness, festivities, and friendliness; families and friends get together for worship followed by a sumptuous and elaborate feast. It is also considered a harvest festival. This year it falls on October 17.

Hinduism, oldest and third largest religion of the world, has about one billion adherents and moksha (liberation) is its ultimate goal. There are about 2.3 million estimated Hindus in USA.

Last updated on Jul 11^th, 2009 at 16:30 pm IST--Sampurn Media

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