DIWALI, the Festival of Lights, has always been a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
But this year’s observance at State House carried a deeper meaning for Guyana; it became a living expression of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s One Guyana vision, a philosophy that continues to shape the moral and social fabric of the nation.
On Friday evening, the lawns of State House glowed not only with the soft flicker of diyas and the joyous sounds of cultural performances, but also with the warmth of unity and shared identity.
President Ali, addressing a diverse gathering of citizens, spiritual leaders, and officials, reminded the nation that “our diversity is not a challenge to overcome; it is a blessing to be celebrated”.
In a world where differences often divide, the President’s words resonated powerfully. His choice to host national religious and cultural events at the highest seat of the State is no token gesture; it is a deliberate act of inclusion.
It signals that every Guyanese, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or background, belongs to this home.
Under President Ali’s leadership, the One Guyana initiative has evolved beyond rhetoric. It is now a living, breathing commitment reflected in policies that bridge divides, from equitable access to housing and education, to the celebration of all major religious observances at the national level.
By opening the gates of State House to Diwali, Phagwah, Eid, and Christmas, the President has transformed what was once a symbol of authority into a house of the people, a space for harmony, cultural exchange, and national pride.
Friday night’s celebration carried a refreshing simplicity. There were no stiff formalities, no barriers of rank or status. Instead, there was laughter, music, shared meals, and a powerful sense of togetherness.
In the President’s own words, “Tonight is not meant to be a formal night; it is a night of spiritual upliftment and socialising with each other.” The symbolic act of “breaking bread together”, or, as the President fondly put it, “dipping our fingers in the wonderful tradition of seven curry”, underscored the idea that unity begins at the communal table.
Equally noteworthy was President Ali’s acknowledgment of the corporate community, particularly Banks DIH and Citizens Bank, for their continued partnership.
His hint of “exciting news” for next year’s Diwali and Phagwah observances, tied to the company’s milestone anniversary, suggests a growing synergy between public and private efforts to promote Guyanese identity and national celebrations.
But beyond the festivities, the heart of the message lay in the reminder that Diwali’s light must extend beyond a single evening.
The President called on citizens to be bearers of that light; to illuminate their communities with kindness, understanding, and a shared sense of purpose.
“When one lamp is lit, it can light a thousand more without losing its flame,” he said, offering a profound metaphor for unity and progress.
This year also marks the 50th Anniversary of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, a remarkable milestone in the nation’s cultural and spiritual journey.
The President’s call for citizens to join Dr. Vindhya Persaud and the Sabha in Sunday’s grand Diwali motorcade further reinforces his belief that national celebrations belong to everyone, not just to those of a particular faith.
As Guyana continues to grow and transform, the message of Diwali — and the One Guyana spirit it embodies — remains more vital than ever.
The nation’s strength lies not in uniformity, but in its dazzling mosaic of traditions, languages, and beliefs. When citizens gather under the same light, celebrating each other’s festivals and embracing each other’s stories, they do more than honour heritage — they build the foundation for a truly united Guyana.
This Diwali, under the soft glow of a thousand diyas, President Ali’s vision was not just spoken, it was lived. And in that light, the promise of One Guyana shines brighter than ever.