By>Allison MusanteStaff Writer
WEST WINDSOR-PLAINSBORO The president of the Universal Society of Hinduism is urging the school district to declare Diwali a holiday.
Since South Brunswick’s school board decided in January to include Diwali among its religious closing days, Rajan Zed, a Hindu statesman based in Nevada, has been asking districts across the country to follow suit.
Mr. Zed issued a statement several weeks ago applauding South Brunswick’s move and claimed, “it is important for Hindu families to celebrate Diwali day together at home with their children.”
He said many Hindus consider Diwali the most important Hindu holy day of the year, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
”On this day of forgiveness, festivities and friendliness, families and friends get together for worship followed by a sumptuous and elaborate feast,” he said.
Mr. Zed added the school district has a significant number of West Windsor and Plainsboro students tied to the Hindu faith.
Gerri Hutner, district spokeswoman, said 53 percent of the 9,500 students are Asian as of October 2010. The district does not keep figures on students’ religious identifications.
In response, Superintendent Victoria Kniewel said when preparing the annual calendar in the spring, the administration reviews state and federal holidays and seeks input from the Board of Education, teachers, staff and parents.
”The calendar is a complicated issue and, yet, we have to be practical,” she said. “We must have enough staff and students each day or our teaching efforts will be hampered.”
She said the district adheres to the state’s list of religious holidays, on which days, students may not be penalized for an absence, and teachers are advised to avoid testing and other important events on those days.
”In WW-P, we benefit from multiculturalism as we embrace our global citizenship and stewardship,” she said. “We understand that our families have observances to mark many occasions and we believe our understanding of these important events allows families to feel comfortable as they celebrate their heritage and religion on a personal level, even within the boundaries imposed by the school calendar.”
Besides Christmas, which is closed during the weeklong winter recess, the only other religious school closing during the 180-day year is Rosh Hashana.
Occurring between October and November, Diwali is also celebrated among Jains and Sikhs for many reasons. Hindis commemorate the joyous return of Lord Rama and the defeat of the demon king Ravana, among other stories of the faith.

