A breathtaking light-up at the Kitty Seawall Roundabout left many in awe, as the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha launched their 2021 Diwali observances. Although a Hindu religious occasion, the ‘Festival of Lights’ is treasured by Guyanese from all walks of life.

On Wednesday evening, as ‘Deep Jale’ got underway, an exquisite murti of the Hindu Goddess, Maha Lakshmi was lit up in a circle, adorned with lotus petals.

Sacred chants and prayers enchanted the venue, in the presence of depictions of Ashtalakshmi, which is known as the eight forms of Lakshmi.

Many have described the event as one that was spiritually uplifting with beautiful bhajans done by Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s talented artistes including Karamchand Sugrim of Berbice, Suraj Singh, Sookrane Boodhoo, Rekha Singh and Ganindra of West Coast Demerara, and Bunty Singh of West Berbice.

The Dharmic Nritya Sangh also performed captivating dances that were specially choreographed by President of the Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, aptly reflecting the season. Hare Krishna Isckon Guyana and Feel the Beat Tassa group also provided chants and music to complement the simple, but lovely program.

Dr. Persaud, who is also the Minister of Human Services and Social Security committed to making ‘Deep Jale’ a staple on the national calendar. She said that the event complements the Dharmic Sabha’s magnificent motorcade, and went further to urged all eligible Guyanese to get vaccinated so that next year, the country will be able to return to the days of hosting its massive and iconic Diwali motorcade.

Dr. Persaud said that in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the Dharmic Sabha will be widely broadcasting a virtual motorcade on November 3. She emphasized the festival’s ability to create an environment of oneness and unity, in keeping with its central theme of Maha Lakshmi Puja.

The Dharmic Sabha President also reminded the gathering that prayers to Maha Lakshmi leads devotees to rekindle their inner spiritual light, which triumphs over the negatives not only within, but externally as well. Such prayers, she said, also influences the emergence of goodness and positivity.

Dr. Persaud also encouraged all persons to continue the Guyanese tradition of respecting and participating in each other’s celebrations, as it remains a positive and powerful example to the rest of the world.

Dr. Persaud used the opportunity to applaud the creativity and efforts of the Dharmic Sabha’s youths who designed and created the fascinating displays.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Waldron was also on hand to share her Diwali experiences growing up; she congratulated the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha for its dynamic role in sustaining and preserving culture in Guyana and highlighted its iconic motorcade which not only stirs excitement among Guyanese at home, but also attracts scores of visitors to the country as well.
She also mentioned the noble values of Diwali and its message, emphasizing the triumph of good over evil. Also in attendance were Ministers Sonia Parag and Anand Persaud, along with British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha extended gratitude to all those who supported the event, and highlighted the fact that similar events will be held in Berbice on Sunday October 31, and on the West Coast of Demerara on Saturday, October 30. Here are some images from Wednesday’s ‘Deep Jale.’