THERE was an eastern feel to lessons when children marked the “festival of lights” as they learned about the Hindu celebration Diwali.

Youngsters at St John’s CE Kearsley found out about customs and traditions surrounding the festival, and experienced everything from dressing in beautiful saris and terrific turbans.

Special guest Monica Ballani, teacher of Bollywood dance, was invited to the school to bring alive the teaching of Diwali as part of the children’s learning of different festivals.

Reception teacher Carley Morris said: “The purpose of the day was to support the children’s moral, spiritual and cultural development.

“During the day they dressed up — the girls in saris and boys in turbans. They learnt about the story of Rama and Sita — the boys really liked the sound of the 10-headed demon.

“The children had henna designs on their hands, did some Bollywood dancing and prepared and cooked puris to take home and share with their family.”

The activities proved to be a big hit with the youngsters Sheree Wilson, aged four, said: “I enjoyed having the henna painted on my hand.”

Alfie Jones, aged four, added: “I enjoyed sharing and eating the puri with my family.”

Lorna Munro, who is also a reception teacher, added: “The children learn about the festival every year, but this year we decided to do something different, and bring learning to life.”

Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in autumn every year. The festival signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair.

Diwali is known as the “festival of lights” because houses, shops and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called diyas.