HUNDREDS of children donned colourful clothing and took part in dancing and storytelling to learn more about the festival of lights.

Children from Bridlewood Primary School and East Wichel Nursery and Primary took part in traditional Hindu activities on Wednesday, ahead of the start of Diwali on October 26.

The activities at Bridlewood, which included henna, mehndi patterns and lantern making, were part of the children’s religious studies.

Headteacher Jo Garton said: “We have had a brilliant day. There are a large number of Hindus in the town and we have some in the school. Today was all about getting the children to understand the people around us.

“We are very lucky – we’ve got a mum who is a Hindu and she set up an area to tell them how they worship and pray.”

Children aged from four to 11 had dancing lessons from a professional in the hall and learned about the history behind Diwali.

They also performed their own drama about the story of Diwali legends, Rama and Sita.

“The day has been a real joy,” said Jo. “The children have really engaged with the activities. They also found out about mehndi patterns, which are traditional for festivals like Diwali and for weddings. Some of the children designed their own henna tattoos for their hands.”

The reception class drew rangoli patterns in chalk on the playground and the older pupils created intricate rangoli patterns in maths.

Diwali is one of the most important festivals for Hindus and celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.

The five-day festival honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

Pupils at East Wichel also got into the spirit of Diwali by enjoying dancing and music.

The children wore colourful clothing and learned traditional dance moves in the school hall to celebrate the festival.