THE Region Two administration, in observance of the Festival of Lights, Deepavali, on Friday hosted a symbolic light-up and cultural programme.

The diya was lit by the region’s Chairperson, Vilma De Silva. She was accompanied by Regional Executive Officer (REO), Devanand Ramdatt, Regional Vice-Chairman, Humace Odit, and members of the region’s Hindu Society, Saywack Persaud and Deoshankar Mohan.

During the programme, Pandit Ravin Nateram told staff about the significance of the Festival of Lights and the coming of Maha Lakshmi.

According to Pandit Nateram, Diwali, as it is commonly known, is the most popular festival in Hinduism and symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Meanwhile, De Silva extended Diwali greetings to the region’s staff and special invitees on behalf of His Excellency, Dr. Irfaan Ali.

In her brief remarks, she said that Guyana is a multi-cultural society that embraces holidays such as Diwali. She went on to explain that the Hindu Lord, Rama, returned from 14 years of exile and to welcome him, his devotees dressed the pathway with diyas.

Ramdatt, in his closing remarks, said he was impressed by the cultural display put on by the staff whom he thanked for organising the programme.

The REO used the opportunity to express a strong commitment to work with the staff to move the region forward. He said his desire is for all of them to be motivated to serve the people of Region Two.

Several programme heads also extended Diwali greetings.

Commander of Region Two, Superintendent Crystal Robinson, was among the special invitees.