Caption: President Christine Kangaloo lights a deya at President’s Grounds. Photo: Office of the President and Information Division
By Sue-Ann Wayow
AS the nation celebrates Divali, the Hindu festival of lights, the auspicious holiday should also be a time for sober reflection.
President Christine Kangaloo, joining the Hindu community in its 2024 celebrations, said, “Divali invites us to embrace a beautiful duality: it is a period for both joyous celebration and sober reflection.”
Reflecting on the famous story written in the Hindu holy book, the Ramayan, President Kangaloo noted that citizens joyously celebrate Lord Ram’s defeat of the demon Ravan and the liberation of Mother Sita. In doing so, they replicate the lighting of thousands of earthen lamps (deyas) to welcome Lord Ram and Mother Sita home.
She added, “As we engage in joyful celebration, Divali also offers us an opportunity for sober introspection and spiritual enlightenment. The principles embodied by Lord Ram and Mother Sita remind us not only to persevere in our pursuit of self-improvement and enlightenment but also of our duty to translate faith into action and live righteously towards our loved ones, neighbours, and fellow citizens.”
“Lord Ram’s victory over Ravan is not only a powerful symbol of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil but also a poignant demonstration of the power of love, courage, faith, and devotion to overcome even the most formidable challenges,” President Kangaloo said.
She encouraged citizens to embody and practice the principles of Divali every day. President Kangaloo urged, “As we prepare our homes for the blessings of Mother Lakshmi, let us also reflect on the contents of our hearts, the truth about our attitudes, and the impact of our actions. By doing so, and by making the necessary changes in each of these areas, we truly invite the spirit of Divali into our lives, aspiring to the ultimate goal of choosing good over evil.”
She concluded her message with best wishes of joy and peace for every home.
