THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has extended greetings to thousands of Hindus across the country who will be observing Maha Shivratri today.

The ERC in a press release said it is cognisant that the annual auspicious occasion on the Hindu calendar is marked by fasting, prayers and paying homage to Lord Shiva, a central figure of the Hindu Trinity.

It said it further recognises that the occasion demands of Hindus to move away from conflict and embrace truth and peace instead.

“Ideally, the Commission behooves every Guyanese to traverse similar pathways to achieve national harmony and peace,” the release said before adding that the observance is a major festival in Hinduism which reminds devotees to overcome darkness and ignorance, practice self-restraint and grant forgiveness to others.

The ERC said it supports the continuous freedom of all Guyanese to celebrate their respective traditions and observances in our multi-religious society and Maha Shivaratri further consolidates the country’s religious diversity.

The body is certain that all the ethnic groups can learn from each other’s cultural practices to promote tolerance in one multi-ethnic homeland, the release added.