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September 2008
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2 September |
Ramadan - begins (Muslim) |
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Tuesday
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This takes place during the 9th month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar and is the holiest of the 4 holy months. Muslims abstain from all food and drink between dawn and sunset, and from any traits of bad character.
Ramadan was the month in which the first verses of the holy Qur'an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The reason why Muslims fast during this time is about seeking proximity to God, so that it brings people close to their natural state and purifies thoughts and actions.
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3 September |
Ganesh Chaturthi (Hindu) |
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Wednesday
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On this day Hindus all over the world will celebrate the birthday of Lord Ganesh (Ganesh Chaturthi).
Ganesh is depicted with an elephant's head on a human body and in the Hindu tradition he is the son of Lord Siva and the Goddess Parvati. He is known as the Remover of Obstacles and is prayed to particularly when people are beginning a new enterprise or starting a new business. Ganesh is also known as the patron god of travelling.
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8 September |
Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Christian) |
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Monday
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Roman Catholics celebrate the birth of the Virgin Mary. |
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11 September |
Ethiopian New Year (or Enkutatash) (Rastafari) |
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Thursday
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This is the start of the New Year in Ethiopia. Rastafarians believe Ethiopia is their spiritual homeland and a place to which they want to return.
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11 September |
Lailat al Qadr - The Night of Power (Muslim) |
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Tuesday |
This is the night when the Divine Revelation came to the Prophet Sallalahu Alayhi Wasakm.
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21 September |
International Day of Peace |
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Sunday
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This was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981. The aim of this is to devote a specific time for the UN and people of the world to promote the ideals of peace and demonstrate their commitment to peace.
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22 September |
Autumn Equinox (Pagan) |
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Monday |
This is also known as Mabon or Harvest Home. It is celebrated when day and night are of equal duration.
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29 September |
Navaratri (nine nights) starts (Hindu) |
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Monday
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This is one of the greatest festivals. It symbolises the triumph of good over evil and marks the beginning of Autumn. Communities may get together and have dances and feasts to celebrate.
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30 September |
Rosh Hashanah - Jewish New Year |
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Tuesday |
This day celebrates the creation of the world and lasts for 2 days. L'shanah tovah is the traditional greeting for a good new year. It is also a judgement day where god balances good and bad deeds and decides what the next year will bring. Special food is prepared with an emphasis on sweetness.
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Further information
Natalie Hill
Equality and Diversity Officer
Telephone: 01743 260 200
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