CHAGUANAS West MP Dr Neil Gosine praised Divali Nagar as a national symbol of unity and cultural pride on Saturday night, using his address at the festival to urge compassion, shared prosperity, and renewed commitment to community development.

Speaking at the Divali Nagar grounds—dubbed the “city of lights”—Gosine lauded the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) for nearly four decades of stewardship.

He congratulated NCIC President Surujdeo Mangaroo and the team for building the event into one of the largest Divali celebrations outside India. “The success of the Nagar year after year stands as a reflection of your commitment to cultural preservation, national development, and community spirit,” he said.

Framing this year’s theme, “Loka Samgraha” (Welfare of the World), as especially timely, Gosine said Divali’s message extends beyond ritual. “It speaks to our shared responsibility to uplift one another, to build compassion, and to advance the collective well-being of our people and our planet,” he noted.

He highlighted four pillars drawn from the festival:

• Prosperity that is both material and spiritual, and shared across communities.
• The triumph of knowledge over ignorance through learning and innovation.
• New beginnings that inspire service, stronger families, and unity.
• The economic and social value of cultural events that support livelihoods and strengthen communal bonds.

Recognising youths’ role in the festivities, Gosine called performers, volunteers, and students “the light-bearers of our nation’s future.”

The MP also outlined local priorities, pledging continued work with residents and community groups on infrastructure, drainage, road safety, and opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. “Our shared goal is to build a stronger, more vibrant community where everyone has a fair chance to succeed,” he said.

As thousands of deyas lit the venue, Gosine urged attendees to carry the festival’s spirit into daily life. “Let us commit to being lights in our communities, spreading kindness, generosity, and wisdom in everything we do,” he said, extending Divali greetings to families across Trinidad and Tobago.