TUTORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

CARIBBEAN SECONDARY EDUCATION CERTIFICATE (CSEC)

SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT

CANDIDATE NAME: Sohan Babulall

SUBJECT: English A
CENTRE: Tutorial High School
TERRITORY: Guyana
CENTRE CODE:
TOPIC: Holidays
YEAR: 2024
CANDIDATE NUMBER:

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 Table Of Content

Acknowledgement 3

Introduction 4

Plan of investigation 5

Artifact One 6-7

Artifact Two 8-9

Artifact 3 10-12

Reflection One 13

Reflection Two 14

Reflection Three 15

Written Report 16

Plan Of Oral Presentation 17

Oral Presentation 18

Bibliography 19

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 Acknowledgement

Primarily, the investigator expresses his profound gratitude to the divine for granting him the
strength to endure and successfully complete this SBA. He also appreciates his valued team
members for their encouraging words. Heartfelt thanks are given to his mother and brother,
who provided emotional support. Finally, He expresses his deep appreciation to his English
teacher, Miss Marcia, for her empathy and guidance.

Introduction
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Plan of Investigation

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The researcher's choice of this subtopic stems from a deep personal connection as a Hindu,
driven by a longstanding curiosity about facets within his religion. The researcher has a
genuine fondness for the celebration under examination, finding joy and fulfillment in its
observance. Through delving into this subtopic, the researcher aims to not only enrich his
understanding of his religious background but also to hone his research skills. The intention
is to gather relevant artifacts, including songs, poems, and articles, utilizing internet
resources. This exploration serves as a pathway for the researcher to enhance both his
knowledge of the subject matter and his proficiency in expressing insights through writing.

Artifact One

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Artifact 1: Song
“Aayi Abke Saal Diwali” by Azmi Kaifi / Madan Mohan

his year's Diwali has come

आई अब की साल दीवाली
smear your blood on your face
मुँह पर अपने खून मले
This year's Diwali has come
आई अब की साल दीवाली
there is complete darkness all around
चारो तरफ है घोर अंधेरा
How to light a lamp in the house
घर मे कैसे दीप जले
This year's Diwali has come
आई अब की साल दीवाली
the child longs for sparklers
बालक तरसे फुलझड़ियो
to lamps to walls
को दीपो को दीवारे
walls to lamps
दीपो को दीवारे
mother's laps listen listen
माँ की गोदी सुनी सुनी
how to ride the courtyard
आँगन कैसे सवारे
how to ride the courtyard
आँगन कैसे सवारे
light on their path
राह मे उनकी जाओ उजालो
Whose evening falls

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 बन मे जिनकी म ढले
This year's Diwali has come
आई अब की साल दीवाली
whose power shines
जिनके दम से जगमग
These nights used to sparkle
जगमग करती थी ये राते
used to do these nights
करती थी ये राते
theft was theft
चोरी चोरी हो जाती थी
heart to heart talks
मन से मन की बाते
heart to heart talks
मन से मन की बाते
leave them at home
छोड़ चले वो घर मे
walk with the new moon light
अमावस ज्योति लेकर साथ चले
This year's Diwali has come
आई अब की साल दीवाली
Drip Drip Drip Drip
टप टप टप टप टपके
These tears spilled on an empty plate
ये आँसू छलके खाली थाली
spilled empty plate
छलके खाली थाली
I wonder what she explains.
जाने क्या क्या समझाती
This is the redness of the eyes

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 है आँखो की ये लाली
this redness of the eyes
आँखो की ये लाली
There is noise, there is a fire
शोर मचा है आग लगी
Throats are cut on the mountain
है कटते है पर्वत पे गले
This year's Diwali has come
आई अब की साल दीवाली
smear your blood on your face
मुँह पर अपने खून मले
there is complete darkness all around
चारो तरफ है घोर अंधेरा
How to light a lamp in the house
घर मे कैसे दीप जले
This year's Diwali has come
आई अब की साल दीवाली

Artifact Two

Artifact 2: Poem
“Happy Diwali” by Armin Dutia Motashaw

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 On a dark no-moon day, comes Diwali.
Sing children joyfully, "aali re aali, Diwali aali".
Tiny lamps, make this dark no-moon night bright.
Indeed, this is a beautiful, eye-pleasing sight.

Children, I know, crackers you love to burst.

But kindly a minute spare, n listen to me first.
Minutes few of fun, cause problems very big n grave.
People many, suffocated feel; n pollution we pave.

Frighten we, little babies n of course, dogs too.

In future, about our actions insane, we will rue.

Celebrate let us Diwali, with beautiful, colorful Rangolis n lights.

Share sweets special, homemade n healthy.
Helping moms to them make, even if you are wealthy.
Let's a portion small of these goodies, with the less fortunate share.
Prove let us to ourselves, that we really n truly care.

Artifact Three

Artifact 3: Article
Diwali is India’s most important holiday—and a celebration of good over evil by Amy
Mckeever.

PUBLISHED OCTOBER 11, 2022

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Diwali is India’s most important festival of the year—a time to celebrate the triumph of
light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Widely observed
among more than a billion people from a variety of faiths across India and its diaspora, the
five days of Diwali are marked by prayer, feasts, fireworks, family gatherings, and
charitable giving. For some, Diwali is also the beginning of a new year.

But Diwali is perhaps best known as a festival of lights. Derived from the
Sanskrit Deepavali, which means “row of lights,” Diwali is known for the brightly burning
clay lamps that celebrant’s line up outside their homes. (See dazzling pictures of Diwali, the
festival of lights.)

The dates of this festival are based on the Hindu lunar calendar, which marks each month
by the time it takes the moon to orbit Earth. Diwali begins just before the arrival of a new
moon between the Hindu months of Asvina and Kartika—which typically falls in October
or November of the Gregorian calendar.

The meaning of Diwali—and its many legends

Diwali is so widely celebrated—it’s an important religious festival for Hindus, but is also
observed among Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists—that it has no single origin story. But while
each religion has its own historical narrative behind the holiday, they all ultimately
represent the victory of good over evil.

DIWALI: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

In India, one of the most significant festivals is Diwali, or the festival of lights. It's a five-
day celebration that includes good food, fireworks, coloured sand, and special candles and
lamps.
In Hinduism alone—which is considered the world’s oldest living religion, dating back to
the second millennium B.C.—there are several versions of the Diwali story that vary among
geographic communities. These, however, are all epic tales of victory won by men who
were considered incarnations of the Hindu god Vishnu, regarded as the sustainer of the
universe, and whose role it is to restore the balance of good and evil in times of trouble.

In northern India, Diwali commemorates Prince Rama’s triumphant return to the city of
Ayodhya after 14 years of exile due to the plotting of his evil stepmother—and after a
heroic rescue of his wife Sita, an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi, who had been
kidnapped by the rival king Ravana.

In South India, meanwhile, Diwali Honors the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king
Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 women in his palace and meted out harsh
punishments to any of his subjects who dared stand up against him. And in western India,
the festival celebrates Vishnu’s banishment of King Bali—whose immense power had
become a threat to the gods—to the underworld.

Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, three minority religions in India, have their own Diwali stories.
For Sikhs, whose religion arose in the late 15th century as a movement within
Hinduism that is particularly devoted to Vishnu, Diwali commemorates the release of the
17th-century guru Hargobind after 12 years of imprisonment by Mughal emperor Jahangir.

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Jains, whose ancient religion dates back to the middle of the first century B.C. and also
shares many of the beliefs of Hinduism, observe Diwali as the day that Lord Mahavira, the
last of the great Jain teachers, reached nirvana.

And Buddhists, whose religion emerged in the late 6th century B.C. in what some describe
as a reaction to Hinduism, celebrate it as the day the Hindu Emperor Ashoka, who ruled in
the third century B.C., converted to Buddhism.

Beyond these stories, Diwali is also a celebration of the Hindu goddess of wealth and good
fortune, Lakshmi. In India’s early agrarian society, Diwali coincided with the last harvest
before winter—a time to pray for Lakshmi for good fortune. Today, Indian businesses still
consider Diwali the first day of the financial new year.

How Diwali is celebrated

Just as the legends of Diwali differ from region to region so, too, do the holiday’s rituals.
What most have in common, though, are the abundance of sweets, family gatherings, and
the lighting of clay lamps that symbolize the inner light that protects each household from
spiritual darkness.

Reflection One

"Aayi Abke Saal Diwali" stands as a beloved Diwali anthem, resonating with the essence of
the Festival of Lights. This iconic composition is an embodiment of pure jubilance,
encapsulating the spirit of Diwali in melodious verses and harmonious notes. For the
researcher the power of this music lies in its profound ability to evoke a spectrum of
emotions, ranging from exuberant joy to nostalgic reflection, thereby enveloping the
researcher with a captivating festive aura. With every beat, it transports the researcher into a

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world where the radiant glow of lamps and the camaraderie of loved ones come to life,
making it an indispensable companion for those exploring the cultural and emotional
dimensions of this luminous celebration.

The poem “Happy Diwali” by Armin Dutia Motashaw shapes the researcher’s way of
thinking by highlighting the importance of balancing cultural traditions with environmental
responsibility and community engagement. It prompts a reconsideration of personal actions
during celebrations, advocating for choices that contribute positively to both the immediate
joy of Diwali and the well-being of the broader community and environment.

The article "Diwali is India’s most important holiday—and a celebration of good over evil"
by Amy McKeever may influence someone's way of thinking by providing cultural insights,
highlighting the significance of Diwali, and fostering an understanding of the festival's
symbolism in celebrating good over evil. The information presented could contribute to a
broader cultural awareness and promote a positive perspective on the traditions associated
with Diwali.

Reflection Two
The song titled "Aayi Abke Saal Diwali" by Azmi Kaifi and Madan Mohan. The lyrics are not
only poetic but also evoke a deep sense of emotion and reflection. The song captures the
essence of Diwali, describing the anticipation and joy associated with the festival. However,
it takes a poignant turn as it highlights the stark contrast between the traditional celebration of
Diwali and the harsh realities of life, symbolized by the lines "smear your blood on your
face" and "there is complete darkness all around." This contrast prompts reflection on the
societal and personal challenges that coexist with the festive spirit, adding layers of
complexity to the celebration of light over darkness.

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The poem titled "Happy Diwali" by Armin Dutia Motashaw, offers a contrasting perspective
by focusing on the positive aspects of Diwali. The poem encourages a mindful celebration,
urging individuals to consider the impact of their actions, particularly in relation to bursting
crackers. The poet advocates for a celebration that goes beyond personal enjoyment,
emphasizing the importance of sharing and caring for the less fortunate. This artifact prompts
reflection on the environmental and social responsibilities tied to festive celebrations,
encouraging a more conscious and compassionate approach towards Diwali festivities.

The article by Amy Mckeever titled "Diwali is India’s most important holiday—and a
celebration of good over evil," provides a comprehensive overview of the significance of
Diwali across various religions and regions. The article explores the diverse origin stories
associated with Diwali and the common thread of celebrating the triumph of good over evil.
It delves into the religious and cultural dimensions of Diwali, shedding light on the stories
that have shaped the festival. This artifact prompts reflection on the rich cultural tapestry of
India, emphasizing the universality of themes like light, knowledge, and the victory of good
over evil, which resonate across different faiths and traditions.

Reflection Three
The exploration of Diwali, encompassing its historical roots, religious significance, and
cultural practices, presented a compelling yet challenging research journey. Navigating
through the rich tapestry of Diwali's traditions required a delicate balance between historical
accuracy and the creative expression of its festive elements. However, overcoming these
challenges not only expanded the researcher’s knowledge of Diwali but also refined his
research and analytical skills.

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Delving into the topic revealed the profound symbolism ingrained in Diwali celebrations. The
vibrant array of lights, the traditional rituals, and the sense of togetherness during the festival
contributed to its unique essence. Understanding the cultural nuances associated with Diwali
allowed the researcher to appreciate its global significance, transcending religious boundaries
and fostering a sense of unity among diverse communities.

Constructive feedback from peers and instructors played a crucial role in shaping the
researcher’s understanding and approach to the topic. The insights provided helped him refine
his presentation, ensuring clarity and coherence in conveying the essence of Diwali. This
collaborative aspect of the learning process significantly contributed to the overall quality of
his work.

On a personal level, this exploration into Diwali has not only deepened my academic
knowledge but has also cultivated a profound appreciation for cultural diversity and the
transmission of traditions across generations. The festival's themes of light, knowledge, and
the triumph of good over evil resonate universally, emphasizing the importance of celebrating
diversity and fostering understanding in our interconnected world.

Looking forward, the insights gained from studying Diwali undoubtedly contributed to the
researcher’s broader understanding of cultural celebrations and their significance. The
research, analysis, and presentation skills developed during this exploration are valuable
assets applicable across various academic and real-world contexts.

In conclusion, the journey through the topic of Diwali has been an enlightening and
rewarding experience. It has expanded the researcher’s knowledge base, honed essential
skills, and fostered a deeper cultural awareness, underscoring the significance of embracing
diversity and fostering mutual understanding in our interconnected global community.

Written Report

Title: Exploring Cultural Festivals: A Written Report on Mashramani, Diwali, and Phagwah
Introduction:
Our group embarked on a collective exploration of the theme of "Holidays," aiming to
unravel the cultural richness and significance encapsulated in three distinct festivals –

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Mashramani, Diwali, and Phagwah. Each group member focused on a specific festival to
provide a comprehensive understanding of the diverse celebrations associated with holidays.
Selection of Pieces:
The selection process involved a collaborative effort, with each member proposing artifacts
that best represented the essence of their respective festivals. After thorough discussions, we
settled on "Mash in Guyana" by Rudy Grant for Mashramani, the article "Celebrating
Phagwah under the new norm" by Naomi Paris for Phagwah, and the poem "Happy Diwali"
by Armin Dutia Motashaw for Diwali. The choice was based on the pieces' cultural relevance,
depth, and ability to convey the unique spirit of each festival.
Analysis:
For Mashramani, the song "Mash in Guyana" vividly portrayed the festive and energetic
atmosphere of the celebration, with rhythmic beats and lively lyrics. The analysis focused on
the song's ability to capture the essence of Mashramani, reflecting its historical roots and the
vibrant culture of Guyana.

Regarding Phagwah, Naomi Paris's article delved into the adaptation of the festival under
new circumstances. Our analysis highlighted the author's reflective and resilient tone,
emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural traditions amid contemporary challenges.
The piece underscored the adaptability of communities in embracing change and utilizing
modern tools like virtual celebrations.

For Diwali, the poem "Happy Diwali" by Armin Dutia Motashaw served as a literary
exploration of the festival's significance. Our analysis focused on the poetic elements, such as
imagery and symbolism, to reveal how the poem conveyed the spiritual and celebratory
aspects of Diwali. The use of language and cultural references contributed to a deeper
understanding of the festival's traditions.

Outcomes:
As a group, the exploration of Mashramani, Diwali, and Phagwah provided us with a
profound appreciation for the cultural diversity embedded in these holidays. The artifacts
served as windows into the unique traditions, beliefs, and expressions associated with each
festival. Our collaborative effort facilitated a rich discussion that broadened our knowledge
and fostered a deeper understanding of the importance of holidays in cultural identity.

The analysis process not only deepened our understanding of the chosen festivals but also
prompted critical thinking about the ways in which cultural expressions are preserved and
adapted over time. The artifacts served as valuable lenses through which we gained new
insights, challenged assumptions, and embraced the dynamic nature of holiday celebrations.

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In conclusion, our written report reflects a cohesive and comprehensive exploration of
Mashramani, Diwali, and Phagwah, showcasing the significance of holidays in shaping
cultural identity. The artifacts chosen, along with our analytical approach, contribute to a
nuanced understanding of the festivals' cultural nuances and the ways in which they evolve in
response to changing contexts.

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