🪔 1. Lamp Lighting Ceremony
- Opening with diya lighting by NHS Trust leaders, chaplaincy, and Hindu staff
- Optional short interfaith prayer or moment of silence
- Accompanied by devotional music or bhajans
🎤 2. Cultural and Educational Talks
- Brief talk: “What is Diwali and why is it meaningful in healthcare?”
- Optional patient voice or testimonial
- Sharing of NHS values like kindness, respect, compassion through Hindu lens
🎶 3. Cultural Performances
- Dance (classical or Bollywood), singing, flute or tabla performances
- Recorded music if live performances not feasible
🎨 4. Decorations
- Rangoli patterns at entrance using coloured powder or laminated artwork
- LED diyas and marigold garlands (battery-operated for safety)
- Posters with Diwali messages and Hindu NHS Network branding
🍬 5. Prasad & Sweets Distribution
- Individually wrapped Indian sweets (mithai) or NHS-safe Satvic snacks
- Fasting options available where possible
- Distribution at canteen counters or gift bags for staff/patients
📿 6. Spiritual Moments
- Guided 5-minute meditation sessions
- Diwali Aarti in the prayer room (pre-announced with chaplain approval)
- Bhagavad Gita reflection readings for healing and hope
🫶 7. Patient Inclusion
- Cards, devotional leaflets or sweets for inpatients celebrating Diwali
- Chaplain visits or remote livestream of celebration
- Interpreter support where needed
