GUYANA’S cultural diversity was on full display once again as Guyanese by the thousands participated in the Phagwah festival.
President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali in his Phagwah message said that the immense significance of Phagwah extends beyond religion. It represents the breaking down of cultural and racial barriers into vibrant canvases of colour signifying unity and harmony.
According to President Ali, Phagwah is a celebration of joy, colour and exuberance; it overflows with happiness and camaraderie.
Phagwah is more than a festival. At a more fundamental level it signifies the triumph of good over evil and justice over injustice. These are values that are universal and embraced by millions of people all across the globe.
In a real sense, it also embodies the spiritual and morality of President Ali’s One Guyana vision, which essentially is characteristic of a society in which there is peace, harmony and respect for each and every individual regardless of race, religion or political affiliation.
This display of oneness and togetherness at the Phagwah celebrations speaks to a society that is evolving into a higher level of multiculturalism and cultural diversity. People from all across the ethnic spectrum participated in the celebrations. It is indeed a joy to watch children of all ethnicities engaging in the fun and frolic associated with the festival.
This is a welcome and encouraging indication of an increasing level of cultural assimilation which certainly bodes well for our evolving One Guyana as envisaged by President Ali. It is also a clear message to all that any attempt to sow the seeds of division in our society will not be tolerated.
As observed by President Ali, Phagwah holds deep cultural significance for our nation. It is a time when barriers of race, class and creed dissolve in the joyous revelry of colours.
The showering of colourful powders and the sprinkling of liquids not only adds to the merriment, but also serves as a reminder that in celebrating Phagwah we embrace our shared humanity.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to building a united Guyana. Discrimination based on skin colour, hair texture or religion has no place in our society. Let us pledge to create a Guyana where everyone can partake in, and celebrate our collective prosperity and diversity.”
The above are indeed deeply profound and forward-looking thoughts from President Ali, whose vision of a new Guyana in which there is peace, progress and prosperity for all has found resonance with people all across the political and ethnic spectrum in Guyana and beyond.
