…as we celebrate Phagwah
GUYANESE of all races and religions should use this auspicious period during the festival of Holi or Phagwah to reflect on blessings and to embrace differences with love and respect for each other. Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali extended this Phagwah message yesterday during a ceremony held to commemorate the Hindu festival at the Housing Ministry on Brickdam in the city.
In his welcome address, Ali said, “I am happy to be a part of this celebration once again, as this is a time to celebrate through colour,  the beauty and prosperity of life and the blessings that we have.”
He noted that the period denotes the celebration of the harvest and the reverence of having fertile lands, which is held in high regard by most religions and he called on all Guyanese to reflect on the importance of this.
He pointed out that many of our rice farmers over the last couple of days have endured hardships and loss because of the rainy conditions; but despite this, there is cause for celebration.
“Though we have fertile lands the weather conditions have not been good to the farmers and their crops, but we need to use this opportunity to celebrate the blessings of life, to remember our brothers and sisters across the globe and the hardship that they are going through,” he said.
The Housing Minister called on those present to remember our Japanese brothers and sisters who have suffered terribly because of the horrific earthquake and tsunami that devastated their homes and disrupted their lives.
Ali stated, “When we support and help each other, we can encourage everyone to enjoy the beauty of life.”
In explaining the symbolism of the religious festival, Ali implored all present to recommit towards accepting our blessings and understanding the significance of the season, which encompasses love, overcoming evil, unity, and endurance.
“Though we may have differences, we need to maintain the respect and love for each other,” he stressed.
Continuing, Minister Ali extended warm Phagwah greetings to those gathered, the staff of the Ministry of Housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), as well as the entire nation.
“I want to wish you all a happy Holi or Phagwah, that is filled with colour, that is safe and filled with a deeper spiritual meaning which will help to reshape our lives so that we can have a better community,” he emphasized.
During the celebratory ceremony, guests were treated to a variety of religious songs, dances and tassa drumming.
Delivering his message on the significance of the season, Pandit Navindradatt Lilah pointed out that the theme of Phagwah surrounds peace and harmony.
“We should love everyone and see God in everyone and strive to develop good qualities,” he advocated.