A Navratri celebration was held on 19 September, organised by the PTA at Grange Primary School on Welbeck Road.
The school hall was decorated with bright colours and set up for an evening of dancing, prayers and food. The event began with a traditional arti – a prayer to the Goddess Mathaji – before the dancing started.
Garba, a traditional Gujarati dance performed in large moving circles, saw pupils, parents and staff join in together. Many dressed in traditional outfits, adding even more colour to the evening.
Food was also a big part of the celebration, with families enjoying pani puri, gulab jamun, pau vada, mango lassi and more, all donated by the PTA.
The event helped raise funds that will go towards class trips and extra resources for pupils at the school.
Shivani Joshi, Events Lead at Grange, said: “It was a lovely community event – the children loved it.”
Headteacher Daniel Kerbel added: “We are always aiming for progress at Grange and this year we brought the colour, vibrancy, holiness, and joy of Navratri to our school through the dedication of our PTA. The hall was a magnificent display of colour, with flour floor paintings, a shrine at the centre, and spiritual music to dance the Garba to.
“Everyone was made so welcome, and many of our children were delighted to take the lead, as this is part of their traditions and culture.
“For myself, as a fan of diversity, it was a blessing, privilege, joy, and affirmation to be able to join in. I am so proud and happy to be part of the Grange community.”
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