SCORES of Hindus residing in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Friday evening converged on the tarmac of Imam Bacchus and Sons to witness the symbolic lighting of a creative multi-diya structure.

The event was organised by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, in collaboration with the Essequibo Coast Praant.

This year, the event was organised a little differently, given the COVID-19 pandemic and guidelines that are in place. Instead of the annual Praant Diwali motorcade, a structure bearing lighted Diwali messages was switched on. The structure was adorned with lotus flowers sitting on a “Kalas”, and from the “lota/Kalas” emerged the flames. The lights represent the Hindu goddess Maha Lakshmi, who is adored during the Festival of Lights, Deepavali. Persons gathered around the structure and took photos.

A virtual stage show, which featured singing and dances performed by the Saraswati Dance Academy and Khandiya Dance Troupe was shown via a projector.

Meanwhile, President of the Essequibo Coast Praant, Pandit Kaydar Persaud expressed joy that an event to commemorate the festival was being held, and said that because of the pandemic, extra precautions were taken. He took the opportunity to wish the entire nation pre-Diwali greetings.

The Spring Garden, Anna Regina, Charity and Aurora Estate Mandirs used the occasion to display small floats depicting the significance of Diwali. Excited Essequibians took countless pictures with children dressed as Goddess Lakshmi.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has planned a number of activities countrywide to observe the festival. These include Deep Jale, virtual Rangoli competitions, and a virtual Diwali motorcade.