PPP: Time to take stock of our achievements
THE PEOPLE’S Progressive Party, in extending Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese in general, and the Hindu community in particular, has called on the populace to reflect on where we’ve come from as a nation, and where we’re headed.
The full text of the Party’s message reads:
“Phagwah has become one of the most popular festivals in our country. This is because the message of this festival is universal; it is a story of the victory of good over evil.
“Today, as we celebrate this wonderful occasion, we must spare a moment to take stock of our achievement, since our country emerged from the pits of oppression in 1992. Our accomplishments have been tremendous; we have totally rebuilt our destroyed infrastructure, and have further expanded them. Freedoms and rights which are being fought for in many parts of the world flourish here.
“Most important, our people have come together, and we are storming the walls of poverty and other social ills. We can be proud of the fact that on every front, we have made great advances. Our country has a lot to celebrate.
“It has been proven, without a shadow of doubt, that democracy is superior to dictatorship. The Guyanese people must guard their gains jealously, and advance to greater prosperity.
“Once again, we extend happy Phagwah greetings to all.”

In the spirit of the season…
Tourism Minister urges visitors to join in the celebrations
MINISTER of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Manniram Prashad, in true Guyanese fashion, has not only accorded visitors to these shores at this time of year an exceptionally warm welcome, but is also urging that they join in the festive celebrations and have themselves a whale of a time.
As he observes in his traditional message:
“I am sure you will have a memorable and unforgettable experience during your stay here, as you join us in celebrating this festival of colours.
“This joyous festival celebrates the coming of spring and the beginning of the Hindu New Year on one hand, and on the other the story of Prince Phahalad, whose deep convictions protected him from evil.
“The story of Prince Prahalad should be a source of strength for all, especially his ability to confront challenges. It serves to remind us of the commemoration of the ultimate triumph of good over evil; it encourages us not to use our energies and resources to project or do evil, but to conquer that evil within ourselves for the betterment of humanity.”
Phagwah, he said, is regarded as a period of rejoicing, when people of all ages, colour, and creed sprinkle abeer, abrack and perfume on each other, expressing their feelings of love, unity and happiness towards one another.
“Phagwah in our country brings our people together in a very colourful and festive celebration. It is another occasion for the sharing of joy, love, and friendship,” he said, adding:
“The dawning of Spring represents rebirth and rejuvenation of the fields of life and living; Holika fiery demise denotes the transcendence of all that is good over all that is bad; righteousness over evil intentions, greed, and covetousness.
“Let us all seek to purify our inner selves and to live more in harmony with nature rather than to contribute to its destruction.”
In closing, the minister said:
“Once again, let us make every effort to conquer the evil within ourselves, and to do good for humanity and for our beautiful country.
“A Happy Phagwah to all!”

M&CC: An opportune time to ‘ground’ with God
THE Mayor & City Council (M&CC) is calling upon the nation to use this festive occasion to not just remind ourselves of its spiritual significance, but also see it as an opportunity to get closer to God.
In a message to mark the occasion, the M&CC says:
“This year, the Hindu Community will celebrate the joyous festival of Holi or Phagwah with the usual pomp and joy.
Happily, Phagwah was declared a Public Holiday when we became a Republic in the early 1970s; this allowed the entire nation to share this joyous time.
“But even as we celebrate this day, it is useful to remind ourselves of its deep spiritual significance, and to be conscious that this period gives us an opportunity to reunite with God, whilst spreading happiness to those around us.
“In our present circumstances, we must not ignore our collective responsibility to secure the integrity of our society, and to do what we can to ensure that justice, truth and morality characterize this nation-State in a year which will test the wisdom or expose the folly of our people.”