The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s last night hosted its Diwali motorcade on the East Bank of Demerara, with a blinding display of superb lights and colour at the Diamond East Bank Demerara tarmac.
This was a first time venture for organisers of the East Bank of Demerara Praant and it was a major success.

A sizeable crowd flocked the venue in eager anticipation of viewing the splendid floats, many of which will be showcased today when the Georgetown/East Coast of Demerara motorcade takes place.
At the East Bank Demerara Praaant event patrons were treated to a rich cultural programme which included intriguing dances by the Camille’s Institute, Shelita Dance Troupe, Hope Mandir dancers and other groups and organisations.
Speaking at this event Chairman of the East Bank Demerara Praant, Rajesh Dubraj thanked the audience for attending and extended gratitude to the many sponsors who contributed to make the event a success.
President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vinda Persaud, welcomed the attendees wishing them all a happy Diwali. She expressed pleasure at being a part of the significant event, emphasising that she is happy also to see the East Bank Demerara Motorcade becoming a reality.
Noting that this event was one of a series of countrywide motorcades to be hosted by her organisation, she reminded spectators that Diwali is indeed a very special festival. She added that these motorcades bring together Guyanese from all walks of life and allow them to interact in an appropriate, alcohol free atmosphere as they usher in the festival.

She said that this is a season where person would light a diya in their homes to represent the long lives of their loved ones, explaining that the ‘lighting process’ signifies the finding of that divine spirit within, with the hope that they can share it to everyone.
She emphasised that this is a season when Hindus would ask their creator to lead them from darkness into light and urged the gathering to divest themselves of everything dark

and negative.
In concluding, she expressed the hope that the East Bank Demerara Praant grows from strength to strength as they celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights.
Amongst the many dazzling floats that were showcased last night, representations were made by the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), which is actually the youth arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the Soesdyke Vishnu Mandir, Covent Garden and Hope mandirs, amongst several others.

(By Alex Wayne)