THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Thursday held a cultural programme at its Main Street location to usher in Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Present at the ceremony were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, Permanent Secretary Alfred King, staff of the Ministry and its related agencies and other invitees.
Minister Anthony said the significance of Diwali is manifold and that individuals should observe this special period, reflect on their lives and make the necessary adjustments to become  better persons so as to have better communities, towns, and by extension, a better country.
He said that the Ministry has embarked on a tradition that will see the observance of each national holiday, an activity that will help broaden the knowledge of staff about other people’s cultures and faiths.  
“What started off as accident of history has now turned out to be an advantage for Guyana, since we are a rich multicultural and multi-ethnic society,” Minister Anthony said.
Despite existing in a diverse society, he said some persons are still living in the past and do not take the opportunity to learn about other people’s cultures and beliefs.   
He implored the gathering to remember that this is a period of joy and merriment and that everyone should remember that good always triumphs over evil.  He urged that Guyanese use this occasion to find their inner light, and think about simple changes they could make to help build a stronger Guyana for “now and later”.
In closing, he assured the audience of Government’s commitment to fostering and sustaining peace among all citizens.
The programme included several cultural pieces depicting the significance of Diwali.(GINA)