CHESTER SPRINGS, PA — Diwali is a celebration of major significance to many in our community who are of Indian heritage. Would you like to learn more about the significance of the celebration here and around the world and also take part in a fun traditional craft?
Henrietta Hankin Branch Library will be hosting a virtual educational program on this topic presented by Dr. Preetha Kesari on Friday, November 5th, from 7:00 – 8:00 pm. Dr. Kesari’s presentation will explain what Diwali is, how it is celebrated all over the world, and what it symbolizes to the Indian population. This will include descriptions of origin stories from Hindu mythology pertaining to Diwali and progress to explain Diwali’s current economic and political significance.
Born and raised in India, Dr. Kesari came to the United States in 1988 to pursue a degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. She has been practicing dentistry in Chester County since graduating in 1992. Having celebrated Diwali her entire life, Dr. Kesari is very passionate about educating those in her community about this very special celebration. She has presented in the past for various community organizations including the YMCA and Camphill Village Kimberton Hills.
In addition to her medical career and raising a family, Dr. Kesari enjoys doing pottery and creating porcelain sculptures for her nonprofit organization, Supreeti Creations. Following her presentation and a question-and-answer period, Dr. Kesari will share her pottery and crafting skills to lead participants through a demonstration of traditional techniques for decorating diyas, the oil lamps made from clay often used as part of the celebration of Diwali. Registered participants can stop by the Reference Desk at Henrietta Hankin Branch Library to pick up a craft kit consisting of a clay diya made by Dr. Kesari and painting supplies. These craft kits will be available in the week preceding the program, from Friday, October 29th through November 5th, while supplies last.
To register for this special event, please visit ccls.libcal.com and search for Diwali the festival of lights. This event supports PA Forward Civic and Social Literacy.
The mission of the Chester County and Henrietta Hankin Branch Libraries is to provide informational, educational, and cultural services to the residents of Chester County so that they may be lifelong learners. The Chester County Library & District Center is located at 450 Exton Square Parkway, Exton, PA. For hours or more information, visit our website at www.ccls.org/ccl.
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This article is intended for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice, guidance or counsel. It is provided without warranty of any kind.