CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WWBT) - A local family is pushing for Chesterfield County Public Schools to add Diwali as an official school holiday.

Commonly called the “festival of lights,” it’s celebrated by millions of people around the world, including Hindus and people of other faiths.

For many families, Diwali brings lots of festivities, traditions, and most importantly, time spent with one another.

Since starting at Old Hundred Elementary School in Chesterfield County, fifth grader Aanvi Gandhi misses a majority of the day.

“By the time I’m home, I won’t be able to do a lot of stuff, cause a lot of the things have already been done, and I’m also really tired,” Aanvi Gandhi said. “I have to struggle to balance out a little bit of prayers and stuff with homework.”

Surrounding school division

See Full Page