THE Huist Diren Sanatan Dharma Mandir and the Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir emerged as the top winners at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Essequibo Coast Praant Annual Diwali Motorcade, held on Thursday evening at the Anna Regina Car Park.

The grand event illuminated the Essequibo night sky and saw participation from 12 mandirs and one commercial float, each showcasing vibrant creativity, devotion and artistry.

In the Large Category, Huist Diren Sanatan Dharma Mandir secured first place, followed by Queenstown Gyaan Saagar Mandir in second, West Coast Demerara Praant in third, Adventure Mandalee Mandir in fourth and Seeta Ram Radhay Shyam Dharma Mandir in fifth.

New Road Sada Shiva Naujawaan Mandir and New Road Vishnu Mandir also participated in this category.

In the small category, Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir captured first place, with Affiance Vishnu Mandir placing second, Hibernia Mandir third, Radhay Krishna Bounty Hall Mandir fourth and Better Success Vishnu Mandir fifth.

All participating mandirs received cash prizes and trophies in recognition of their efforts.

Judging criteria included punctuality, originality, illumination, creativity, depiction, attire, overall presentation and the appropriate use of music.

Speaking on behalf of the Spring Garden Mandir, Mahindra Sharma explained that their float depicted the various forms of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolising prosperity, purity, and divinity during the Diwali season.

He noted that members had been working tirelessly over several nights to bring their concept to life, emphasising that participation in the motorcade is something the mandir eagerly anticipates each year.

The main highlight of the event was a performance from a folk-dance troupe from Utter Pradesh India. They amazed the audience with their performances.

Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who is also the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, delivered greetings on behalf of both the Sabha and the Government of Guyana.

She expressed joy at celebrating Diwali with Essequibians and commended the Essequibo Coast Praant for its continued partnership in hosting the annual motorcade.

Dr. Persaud highlighted that the Diwali Motorcade has been hosted for five decades, evolving into a cherished national and global tradition that promotes unity, peace, and togetherness. She praised the efforts of all mandirs, particularly the youth, for preserving and promoting cultural and spiritual values.

She also urged Hindus to observe the five days of Diwali, perform Lakshmi Puja and continue the traditional practice of lighting earthen diyas rather than relying solely on modern lighting.

Regional Chairman Devin Mohan also commended the event, congratulating the Essequibo Praant for its successful coordination.

He pledged the Region’s continued support and lauded the festival for fostering community unity and cultural pride.