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Embracing Inclusion in Traditional Hindu Festivities
Celebrating festivals is a time for joy, connection, and honoring traditions, but for those with sensory sensitivities, these events can be overwhelming. This blog, informed by the expertise and recommendations of Myurika Sithamparanathan, an Honours Bachelor of Science graduate from the University of Toronto and Master of Health Informatics graduate, offers strategies to make Hindu festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi sensory-friendly. These practical tips ensure that everyone, regardless of sensory needs, can fully participate and enjoy these culturally significant occasions.
Why Sensory-Friendly Festivals Matter
Hindu festivals are vibrant and celebratory, often involving music, lights, large gatherings, and rituals. While these elements are integral to the celebrations, they can pose challenges for individuals who experience sensory overload, autism, or other sensory processing differences. By adopting sensory-friendly practices, we create inclusive environments that allow more people to join in the festivities.
Understanding Sensory Sensitivity Through Real-Life Insights
A newspaper report titled, “Entering the World of Autism” by Anusha Parthasarathy (2016) highlights an impactful event in Chennai, India, focused on raising awareness of autism through sensory perception activities. In the article, special educator Anu Alex explains the challenges faced by individuals with autism, noting:
“Sometimes, people with autism are hypersensitive to hearing. What you may not find loud may be really, unbearably loud for them. That’s why you often see them move to a corner with their hands over their ears” 2016) 2.
This insight serves as a reminder of the importance of creating sensory-friendly environments that accommodate diverse needs, ensuring inclusivity for all participants during festivals and events.
Sensory-Friendly Ganesh Chaturthi Strategies
Avoid Busy Hours
Temples are often bustling during Ganesh Chaturthi. To reduce overwhelm, consider visiting during less busy times. Contact the temple to inquire about quieter hours or request a private prayer session with sensory adjustments, such as:
- Dimming lights.
- Lowering or turning off loud music.
- Reducing scents or smells.
- Limiting the number of attendees.
Bring Sensory-Friendly Tools
Pack essentials like noise-cancelling earmuffs, sunglasses, or a weighted lap pad. These tools can help manage sensory triggers during prayers or processions.
Watch the Parade from Afar
If attending a parade is important to your celebration, choose a quieter location away from the crowds. Bring sunglasses and headphones to reduce the impact of bright lights and loud noises.
Get more parade ideas in our blog: Sensory-Friendly Parades: A Guide to Inclusive Celebrations
Consider Virtual Participation
For those who find large gatherings overwhelming, live streams of the celebrations can offer an engaging yet comfortable way to participate.
Sensory-Friendly Diwali Tips
Plan Ahead
The preparation for Diwali, from cleaning to cooking, can feel overwhelming. Create a checklist and divide tasks among family members to minimize stress. A written schedule for the day of celebration can also help manage expectations.
Gather in Smaller Groups
Diwali gatherings often involve large numbers of family and friends. To reduce sensory overload, host smaller gatherings and inform your guests about sensory-friendly practices, such as:
- Dimming lights.
- Using quieter decorations and activities.
Use Electric or Battery-Operated Lights
Traditional oil lamps are beautiful but can be overwhelming due to their brightness. Opt for dimmable electric lamps or LED tea lights for a sensory-friendly alternative.
Create a Sensory-Friendly Fireworks Show
Instead of attending large public displays, consider hosting a quieter backyard fireworks show with noise-reducing options. Use ear protection, sunglasses, and calming tools like fidgets to enhance comfort.
Read our comprehensive blog about fireworks: Fireworks for All: Creating Sensory-Friendly Community Events
Sensory-Friendly Holi Ideas
Provide a Sensory-Friendly Environment
Make adjustments like:
- Using unscented color powders.
- Avoiding loud music or popping water balloons.
- Ensuring accessible restrooms and spaces.
Offer a Chill Zone
Designate a quiet area for breaks during Holi celebrations. Include calming music, sensory tools, and comfortable seating. Make the chill zone easy to find with clear signs.
Educate Participants
Promote your Holi celebration as sensory-friendly. Share details about what to expect and educate attendees on sensory needs and how to support inclusivity.
Have Trained Support Staff
Staff with training in sensory differences can provide guidance and offer sensory tools to participants, ensuring everyone feels supported.
FAQs
1. What makes a festival sensory-friendly?
Sensory-friendly festivals are designed to reduce triggers like loud noises, bright lights, and overcrowded spaces. Adjustments include quiet zones, dim lighting, and accessible restrooms.
2. How can sensory-friendly practices benefit families?
They allow families to celebrate together without stress, making festivals more inclusive for children and adults with sensory sensitivities.
3. Can sensory-friendly events still maintain cultural authenticity?
Absolutely! Small changes like reducing noise or using dimmable lighting can honor traditions while making the event accessible.
Related Blogs to Help You Celebrate Inclusively
- How to Make Temple Visits Sensory-Friendly
- Create Sensory-Friendly Hindu Celebrations: Onam and Tamil New Year
Showcasing Sensory Friendly Solutions
At Sensory Friendly Solutions, we’re committed to making cultural celebrations inclusive for everyone. Join our All Access Training Membership to explore how to create a sensory-friendly Diwali, Holi, and Ganesh Chaturthi.
- Sensory Friendly 101 courses.
- Resources for planning sensory-friendly events.
- Expert-led training tailored to diverse needs.
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Source
- Parthasarathy, A. (2016). Entering the World of Autism. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/society/entering-the-world-of-autism/article5871422.ece
- Parthasarathy, A. (2016). Entering the World of Autism. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/society/entering-the-world-of-autism/article5871422.ece
Christel Seeberger, BSc. O.T., is a regulated health care professional with over 30 years of experience in sensory disorders, disabilities and adapting environments. As someone with a hearing disability, Christel brings her personal lived experience with an invisible disability, sensory sensitivity and sensory overload to her work. In 2016, she founded Sensory Friendly Solutions to create a more sensory-friendly, accessible, and inclusive world through training, certification, product licensing, and product recognition. Christel’s expertise has been featured in guest blogs, as a radio and podcast guest, and in interviews with numerous media outlets, including CBC, CTV, Global News, AMI, Yahoo Life, the Globe and Mail, and local Fox TV/News.
