Church Crookham care home residents celebrate Diwali

 

A care home in Church Crookham marked the festival of light, Diwali, with an afternoon learning about and celebrating Hindu culture.

Residents at Care UK’s Bourley Grange, on Bourley Road, celebrated Diwali, the Hindu festival of light, with a Nepalese-inspired lunch and a special performance from team members. 

As part of the celebrations, team members dressed in traditional Nepalese clothes to perform a Nepali inspired dance routine for the residents to enjoy. 

Keen to dress for the occasion, residents tried on traditional Kurtha Suruwal and learned more about the history of the festival, while enjoying traditional Nepalese cuisine prepared by the Home’s Head Chef along with Nepalese team members, which included momos, selroti, Chicken curry with Himalayan spices and pilau rice. 

The event started with residents learning a traditional prayer to Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, for prosperity and abundance. The home then put a tika on residents’ forehead and scarves and hats famously known as Dhaka Topi for all the gentlemen. The entertainment then kicked off, and the team showcased the rich culture and traditions of Nepal. 

Commenting on the event, 89-year-old resident Ray Byrne, said: “The afternoon was so much fun! The girls and their children dressed in colorful dresses and all danced amazingly, it was beautiful to witness. I especially enjoyed the Nepalese lunch with their famous Gurkha Beer. We learned so much about Diwali and how it is the celebration of togetherness and having fun.” 

Racquel Merdegia, General Manager at Bourley Grange, said: “Everyone had a de-light-ful day celebrating Diwali, learning more about Nepalese traditions and trying various delicacies.

“At Bourley Grange, we are committed to ensuring the home is a welcoming and supportive place for everyone, where different cultures and interests are regularly celebrated through memorable activities which promote positive wellbeing.

“The team also had a fantastic time rehearsing and performing a traditional Nepalese dance – they even got some of the residents to join in! 

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Bourley Grange incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.