— Co-operative Republic of Guyana

PHAGWAH, the festival of colours, is rooted in the celebration of the triumph of good over evil; of service to God as practised by Prahalada over the megalomania of the King Hiranyakashipu.

As a multicultural nation, this Hindu festival serves to demonstrably bring our people together in joyous and spirited celebrations and brotherhood. We recognise the gains made by our people and our country in moving Guyana forward towards a country where social cohesion is being forged stronger each day.

The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana extends Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese, particularly our Hindu brothers and sisters.

The Coalition Government urges all Guyanese to seek spiritual inspiration on this holiday of reflection and togetherness, even as we recognise the primacy of the daily struggle for goodness to prevail within the collective human spirit. This will invariably lead to a society, a country and a world which is kinder, safer, and more humane for all our brothers and sisters across social and cultural divides.

As we celebrate Holi by engaging in the sharing or abeer and water, we are reminded to do so in peace and with a deep sense of respect for our fellow man, and to be cognisant of the prevailing conditions as we face challenges with access to water, particularly in some parts of our hinterland.