Caption: Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles 

OPPOSITION Leader Pennelope Beckles has extended Divali greetings to the  nation, calling for unity, compassion, and integrity amid ongoing economic challenges.

In a Divali 2025 message, Beckles described the Festival of Lights as a sacred period of introspection and renewal, honouring Mother Lakshmi and celebrating “the eternal triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and righteousness over evil.”

She said the festival’s deya-lit homes and temples symbolize a deeper spiritual call to “awaken the light within ourselves: the light of compassion, of service, and of faith,” invoking the Bhagavad Gita’s prayer, “Tamaso mā jyotir gamaya — From darkness, lead me to light.”

Beckles said Divali’s place in Trinidad and Tobago’s national identity, noting it is both a religious observance and a cherished part of the country’s cultural heritage. “From the humble deya on a doorstep, to the radiant bamboo arches in open fields, we witness the beauty, creativity, and devotion that define our people,” she said, adding that the “true light of our nation is found in our unity.”

Addressing current hardships, Beckles said the festival’s message is especially resonant this year. “Even in adversity, light must not be extinguished. It calls upon leaders to act with integrity, upon communities to extend compassion, and upon every citizen to be a light in someone else’s darkness.”

Pledging to advance “fairness and justice, and opportunity for all,” Beckles reaffirmed her commitment as Opposition Leader to ensuring “no home is left in darkness,” and urged citizens to use the season to renew dedication to service and strengthen social bonds.

Extending wishes on behalf of the Opposition and her family, she concluded: “May the divine blessings of Mother Lakshmi bring peace, prosperity, and purpose to every home… Shubh Divali, Trinidad and Tobago. May light forever triumph over darkness.”