THE Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) joins with the nation’s Hindu community in celebrating the festival of Diwali 2015.However, as for other festivals in Guyana these days – Easter, Phagwah, Eid, Christmas – the occasion of Diwali (deep-avali) attracts participation of all groups of Guyanese. The melas and motorcades are joyous representations of the dazzling lights of illumination when the darkness of discord and disappointment are banished, if only for this celebratory period.

Research shows that, beginning in ancient India, the four-day celebration has attracted diverse traditions in separate parts of that vast country. Some Hindus celebrate the marriage of Lakshmi to Lord Vishnu; others worship the dark Goddess of Strength — Mother Kali; then there is the return from exile of Lord Rama. Whatever the emphasis, the celebration of life, love, enjoyment and illumination remain constant.

Given the ideals of the Diwali observances, the Federation was very disappointed to note the unfortunate noisy reaction which has surrounded the festival for the first time since its celebration commenced in our country 177 years ago. This year, disappointingly, the lighting of diyas would not be done by all Hindus on the same night. Had we decided to stick with the approved calendar of holidays, the national holiday would have been (Wednesday) November 11, 2015. Taking into account that the national holiday could have been either November 10 or November 11, 2015, it seems that disguised politics has again been used to divide and perpetuate hidden agendas in our religious practices.

We urge Guyanese to heed the meaning of Diwali behind the joyous celebrations. The light of Lakshmi thrown upon the darkness of division and all things evil must prevail now and for all time. As the GuySuCo Public Relations Officer declared a few nights ago: “Let the supreme light illuminate the soul”. FITUG agrees, and enjoins all Guyanese to join our Hindu brothers and sisters in sharing the diyas’ light of love, knowledge and understanding.