THE Essequibo Coast Praant ushered in Diwali with its annual Deep Jale celebration on Friday evening, hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha in front of the Anna Regina Town Council compound.

This symbolic event, marking the beginning of the Festival of Lights, featured the lighting of a ceremonial diya and a dazzling cultural programme, setting the tone for the joyous celebrations to come.

A large, three-piece Diwali-themed structure, which will remain on display until the festival’s conclusion, illuminated the town of Anna Regina, offering residents a festive backdrop for photos and serving as a beacon of the light Diwali brings. This year’s celebration, sponsored by Morning Glory Inc., saw participation from community members, local leaders, and cultural performers.

The ceremonial Diya was lit by Indrawattie Natram, an executive member of the Essequibo Coast Praant and Office Manager of Morning Glory Inc. In the presence of Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva and Essequibo Coast Praant President, Pandit Kaydar Persaud, Natram set the flame aglow, symbolising the spirit of Diwali—joy, peace, and the triumph of light over darkness.

Pandit Kaydar Persaud, in his address to the crowd, reflected on the significance of Deep Jale, which translates to “light up.” He explained how the celebration, now in its fifth year, was created by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha to foster community bonding and celebrate the deeper meaning of Diwali. Persaud also highlighted the Sabha’s extensive series of events leading up to the festival, including motorcades and rangoli competitions, which are eagerly anticipated by the region.

Natram, representing Morning Glory Inc., expressed the company’s pride in continuing its partnership with the Dharmic Sabha for a third consecutive year. “We take our corporate social responsibility seriously,” she remarked, adding that the company’s commitment to the community is symbolised by the distribution of packs of Morning Glory cereal to attendees. This gesture, she explained, is just one way the company contributes to local events that celebrate culture and unity.

Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, shared her admiration for the vibrant display of cultural performances, especially noting the involvement of youth. De Silva encouraged the community to come together in celebration of Diwali, a time she said promotes togetherness and unity. “This festival is a reminder that we are stronger when we stand united,” she added.

The Deep Jale celebration featured several dance troupes and talented youth performers from across the Essequibo region, filling the night with joy and colour. As the evening came to a close, anticipation grew for the next event on the Praant’s Diwali calendar—the Annual Diwali Motorcade—scheduled for October 25, 2024.

With the town of Anna Regina aglow and the sounds of celebration in the air, the Essequibo Coast prepares for more festivities, uniting the community in a spirit of light, love, and cultural pride.