THE APNU+AFC joins with all Hindus and Guyanese in celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Light. One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolises the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.

In one of the main stories in Hindu mythology, Diwali is the day Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi, and brother Lakshmana returned to their homeland after 14 years in exile. The villagers lit a path for Rama, who had defeated the demon king Ravana. It’s a five-day celebration that includes good food, fireworks, coloured sand, and special candles and lamps. Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live. But there’s one common theme no matter where people celebrate: The victory of good over evil.

As we light our diyas and cook our sweet-meats, which is shared among our people, let us also light the diya of love within us for all of God’s creation. The light of our country must shine touching all corners of our beautiful country.

Shubh Diwali to all Guyanese!