The A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) joins with all Hindus and Guyanese in celebrating Diwali, the festival of light. One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolizes the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.
In one of the main stories in Hindu mythology, Diwali is the day Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi, and brother Lakshmana returned to their homeland after 14 years in exile. The villagers lit a path for Rama, who had defeated the demon king Ravana. It’s a five-day celebration that includes good food, fireworks, colored sand, and special candles and lamps. Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live. But there’s one common theme no matter where people celebrate: the victory of good over evil.
As we light our diyas and cook our sweet-meat which is shared among our people, let us also light the diya of love within us for all of God’s creation. The light of our country must shine touching all corners of our beautiful country.
This year’s observances are occurring at a critical moment in the history of the nation when there is a dire need for mutual respect, social cohesion, and good governance. Let us together defeat the demons of malice, immorality, bitterness, and lust. Let us strive to fight for the just and equitable distribution of our nation’s rich bounty. Let us strive to restore hope and the smiles on the faces of all Guyanese.
As Guyanese celebrate Diwali, APNU+AFC remains committed to ensuring unity in diversity so that our beloved country can realize its fullest potential.
Shubh Diwali to all Guyanese!
