A PARTNERSHIP for National Unity (APNU) takes this opportunity to once more extend felicitations and best wishes to our Hindu brothers and sisters and the people of Guyana generally as we observe yet another Deepavali National Holiday.

Of the various Hindu festivals, Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, enlivens all, young and old, men and women, rich and poor, in towns and communities throughout Guyana. It is especially a unifying and integrating force. Diffusing goodwill, joy and cheer, it brings all people together.
The religious significance of this festival is particularly illuminating. The Goddess Maha Lakshmi, the Goddess of Light, is worshipped for wealth and spiritual enlightenment. But, alas, the light in our beloved country is only flickering. Literally and metaphorically, the light and spirit of this Nation are fast disappearing. With increased corruption, violent crime and a rising sense of hopelessness, the Guyanese Nation sees the light disappearing around them. They sense a gathering storm is at hand, as the human spirit of this Nation becomes sullen and depressed.
This year’s observances are occurring at a very important moment in the history of the nation, when there is a clear need for peace, understanding and stability. These values are common to all the religions in Guyana, and assume particular significance in respect of the Deepavali celebrations.
The idea of the triumph of light over darkness symbolically and otherwise carries a powerful message for the Guyanese nation.
APNU, therefore, joins with the Hindu community and the rest of the nation in celebrating this important event.