Holi & Divali

 

---------Holi-----------


This trip is open to students in philosophy class. 


The field trip is to attend the Holi festival at Barsana Dham.  I believe it is beneficial (and in the spirit of the Humanites & Law Magnet for International Studies) for students to participate in various cultural events.  Barsana Dham - through its festivals and activities - allows students to develop some cultural perspective without having to travel 1/2 way across the world.   See the trip information listed below.


Some people ask me if I am Hindu.   Here is my answer: No...I am not Hindu.  I do think the culture of India (Tibet & Nepal, too) along with the Hindu religion is fascinating, however. I also find the Barsan Dham buildings and well-maintained grounds quite peaceful and rather enjoy spending a few hours out there every 3 months or so.  Finally, I love Indian food, especially when it is free! :)



------------trip details-----------



This trip is for students who have taken the philosophy class.  You are invited to attend Holi at Barsana Dham.


Here are the details.

  1. •What: Holi

  2. •Where: Barsana Dham

  3. •When: Saturday, March 6th from 4:00-8:30

  4. •How: Meet at Fulmore - bus will leave at 4:00pm and will return by 8:30

  5. •Why: Because it is an important cultural event allowing Fulmore students (home of the Humanities and Law Magnet for International Studies) to participate in, learn from and enjoy.

  6. •Cost: $5.00 - this is to cover the cost of transportation.  All money is to be turned into the Magnet office.  Again, I do not take money.  I do not take money. 

  7. •Students are required to answer the 5 questions and have their answers written out and ready to hand to me immediately prior to boarding the bus on Saturday, March 6th:

QUESTIONS:


  1. 1.What is Barsana Dham?

  2. 2.What is Holi?

  3. 3.What do Holi participants do during Holi?

  4. 4.What are the names of 5 events that take place @ Barsana Dham?

  5. 5.What should you wear to Holi?



More information:

  1. •Go here for the link to the Barsana Dham webpage: http://www.barsanadham.org/events/holi-web.html

  2. •Yes, parents are invited to attend.

  3. •Wear clothing that you do not mind getting covered with paint. <<<<<<<< this is important.  Reread it  :)

  4. •Here is a link to pictures from last year's trip to Holi: http://gallery.me.com/brainbackbend#100318

  5. •This trip is for Comprehensive and/or Magnet students who took philosophy with Mr. Harris

  6. •Parents - you are asked to write a permission note stating you approve of your child attending this event and you are aware of the drop off and pick up times.

  7. •Bus will pick up and drop off by the portables across from 7-11



------------Divali---------------



Students who are going on the Divali field trip are required to access this page and:


A. Learn the Rules & Guidelines for our field trip.

B. Learn some background about Divali.


First, let’s talk about rules and guidelines for appropriate behavior.


  1. 1. You will be an ambassador of Fulmore MS.  Please use your manners, be polite, and show respect.  You will be visiting a Hindu temple.  It is a Holy place, like a Christian church or a Muslim mosque.

  2. 2.You are required to take off your shoes when you enter any building.

  3. 3.Every student who attends this trip with Mr. Harris is required to meet at the front of the Temple every hour, on the hour.  When we arrive at the Temple, we will all go to the front of the Temple at the meeting spot so you know where to meet me every hour.  DO NOT BE LATE. 

  4. 4. Part of this trip is about cultural awareness.  Be aware of the different language, music, dance, and clothing. 

  5. 5.Keep up with your personal possessions: phone, cameras, money, etc.  I will not be responsible for anything you lose, and I will not carry or hold your personal possessions.



Second, now let’s talk about some of the history and stories behind Divali.  Please visit this web page  http://library2.nalis.gov.tt/Default.aspx?tabid=98,  and use it to answer the following questions/prompts.  Write out your answers and have them ready to turn in before you get on the bus.


1.  What does Divali mean?


2.  Who are Rama & Sita?


3.  What creature aided Lord Rama?


4.  Finish the following: As light dispels darkness, so should knowledge __________________.  


  1. 5. Who is Lakshmi?  From where did Lakshmi emerge?


  1. 6. According to the Puranas, what does Divali represent?


7.  Finish this sentence, Lakshmi is the Goddess of ______ and _______.


8.  Name 3 popular Divali dishes (cuisine).  Look around on the website and you will find it.


9.  What are the names of some of the traditional Divali dress (clothing).  Look around on the website, and you will find it.


10.  Why should Fulmore students care about and be involved in the cultural events of other countries, religions, and ethnic groups?