DIWALI is a unique and glorious occasion for our peoples, when we renew our spiritual identity, observe fasting to show our sacrifice and strengthen our dedication. It is a sacred time in a person’s life when they can reflect on their own lifestyle and make changes where applicable. The day itself embodies goodness, faithfulness, love and peace.It is unfortunate that we have reached this crisis situation as a country and more so, as a people. There should be no place for tribalism and conflict in the face of such a magnificent celebration. For thousands of years worldwide and for one and a half centuries in Guyana, we had proudly and happily observed the Festival of Lights (Diwali). We had joyously celebrated the return of Shri Raam (Lord Rama) from exile as we lit the diyas symbolising the light that leads us back to purity.

To this writer, it is utterly painful to see the division within the Hindu Community. Since ancient times, Deepavali was observed to engage Hindus into a sequence of renewal and spiritual enhancement. However, with this ongoing conflict in Guyana, this opportunity is being lost. Personally, I am educated as a Muslim and a practitioner. However as Shree Monhandas Karandas Ghandi said “I am a Muslim, I am a Christian and I am a Hindu.” Therefore, I share a loving view for all religions. I am honoured to be from this land of perpetual peace, where we accept all religions and cultures. We have no ongoing inter-religious or intra-religious wars like elsewhere in the world. I was fortunate to have travelled to India where I saw the Christians and Muslims lighting diyas which showed harmony and spiritual cleansing. Here in Guyana, this year’s Diwali should be celebrated by all people. We must never forget how blessed we are as a people to ingest the culture and religion of all our peoples. Again, I urge you all my brothers and sisters to celebrate Deepavali with awe and great excitement.
Controversy:
The Diwali controversy which began last year is most agonising to me personally. The reason for this is that in the past when the Muslim community had a controversy regarding the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration and the right date, I would refer them to the Hindu scientific calendar. Since their calculation is historically correct with the moon and its visibility, I imagined their system to be the most efficient and accurate. Unfortunately, I can no longer do this. Secularism, mixed with a case of personality complexes has spoiled the roost. I am a Muslim that would light a diya to encourage the Holy Spirit to visit my house. I take part in this ceremony to show solidarity of peace and goodwill and to share in this with my Hindu brothers and sisters.

There is a simple solution, a very simple one. I have advised my mother-in-law who is a Hindu and the rest of my family and friends that we should celebrate Diwali on both days: Saturday, 29th October, 2016 and Sunday, 30th October, 2016. Irrespective of if you agree with the Dharmic Sabha or the Viraat Sabha, by celebrating Diwali on both days, no one goes wrong. If it is realised that one of them is wrong, you will not lose the essence of the celebration. So the solution is very simple, celebrate the occasion on both days. This is the way of peace and harmony. Let us desist from attacks and share in the Festival of Light with each other. May the peace of God be with you all my brothers and sisters.
Subh Deepavali!

Regards
Hajji Roshan Khan