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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain how and why Hindus celebrate Holi.

      Key learning points

      1. The festival lasts five days and begins on the night of the full moon. It is a joyful festival of colour.
      2. The pandit lights a bonfire called a burning Holi, sometimes seen as sacred fire.
      3. People also remember the story of Krishna throwing coloured powder at his friends and play 'Holi' by throwing paint.

      Keywords

      • Pandit - a Hindu priest or wise teacher who leads and celebrates worship and prayer

      • Krishna - a Hindu deity who represents compassion, protection and love

      • Holi - a Hindu spring festival

      • Natural world - everything in nature, not made by people

      Common misconception

      Festivals are always serious and solemn.

      The festival of Holi is full of fun and mischief.

      Teacher tip

      You might want to find images and videos of Holi celebrations and the colour throwing in India and the UK. This lesson would be enriched by hearing from members of two or more faith communities talking about how they celebrate and reflect on the natural world.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      Vishnu made the soft like a pillow to save Prahlad.

      Correct Answer: wind, Wind

      Q2.
      Vishnu saved Prahlad from the that tried to trample him.

      Correct Answer: elephants, Elephants

      Q3.
      Where did the Hindu religion originate?

      China
      Correct answer: India
      Africa

      Q4.
      What do Hindus celebrate in spring?

      Correct answer: Holi
      Diwali
      Christmas

      Q5.
      Who is Vishnu?

      a famous king
      a festival
      Correct answer: a Hindu deity

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      The festival of Holi lasts for days and begins on the night of the full moon.

      Correct Answer: five, 5

      Q2.
      The pandit lights a called a burning Holi to symbolise a fresh start.

      Correct Answer: bonfire, Bonfire

      Q3.
      What do Hindus throw during Holi?

      flowers
      Correct answer: paint
      candles

      Q4.
      What does the bonfire at Holi represent?

      a birthday party
      a summer celebration
      Correct answer: good winning over evil

      Q5.
      What is the festival of Holi known for?

      fasting
      quiet reflection and meditation
      Correct answer: fun and mischief

      To help you plan your 2 religious education lesson on: The celebration of Holi, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...