Caption: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar

Summary

• Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar extends Maha Shivratri greetings to the Hindu community and said nationwide security measures are in place for safe worship.
• She described the observance as a time of renewal, urging citizens to let go of anger, dishonesty and fear and choose discipline, compassion and truth.
• Linking the message to national challenges, she called for values-driven change, social harmony and prayers for healing and unity across the country.

By Sue-Ann Wayow

WHILE many may be gearing up for the Carnival weekend, devout Hindus are preparing to celebrate the sacred occasion of Maha Shivratri.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar issued greetings to the Hindu community for the worship that takes place between Sunday and Monday.

She said, “As Prime Minister, I have issued the relevant instructions to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place nationwide, enabling devotees to worship in safety, peace, and dignity.

“The right to practise one’s faith freely and without fear is fundamental, and every necessary measure has been taken to safeguard this sacred observance.”

Maha Shivratri is one of the most cherished nights in the Hindu calendar. From dusk until dawn, devotees fast, pray, meditate, offer sacred items, and chant mantras in honour of Lord Shiva.

Persad-Bissessar said, “Across our communities, temples and homes will glow with devotion as families gather in humility and faith, keeping vigil in quiet reflection and worship.

“At its core, Maha Shivratri is about renewal. Lord Shiva teaches us that before creation can occur, there must be the courage to remove what is harmful and unworthy. It is a reminder that growth begins when we let go of anger, resentment, dishonesty, and fear, and choose discipline, compassion, and truth.”

The Prime Minister said the message speaks not only to individual lives, but to wider society.

“At a time when our country continues to confront crime, violence, and social instability, real transformation cannot come from institutions alone. It begins within our homes, our communities, and our consciences. When we strengthen our values, respect one another, and act with integrity, we strengthen the nation itself,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar said the occasion also serves as a reminder to citizens living in a richly diverse land. The peaceful observance of the holy occasion reflects the mutual respect, understanding, and shared humanity that define us as a people.

She said, “This harmony is one of our greatest blessings, and it is a legacy we must continue to nurture and protect.”

As devotees maintain vigil in prayer and reflection, prayers should also be offered for continued healing and renewal across the land.

Persad-Bissessar said, “May we find the strength to remove what weakens us, the courage to confront what threatens us, and the wisdom to build a future rooted in justice, opportunity, and hope.”

She ended her message by wishing everyone observing the holy occasion a meaningful and uplifting Maha Shivratri.

“May Lord Shiva bless your homes with peace, guide our nation with wisdom, and grant us all strength and unity,” Persad-Bissessar said.