Message by Dr. George Norton, Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport on the occasion of Diwali.

Georgetown, Guyana – (November 6, 2018) Today marks one of the most auspicious occasions on the Hindu calendar; it is the day when Hindus in Guyana and across the world celebrate Diwali- known as the ‘Festival of Lights’.

Diwali is a time of great religious significance; a spiritual symbol of the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair.

In Guyana, the celebration of Diwali transcends the Hindu community. It provides an opportunity for Guyanese to share in the preservation of our rich cultural heritage – one we must continue to preserve.

The celebration of Diwali ushers in a renewed sense of hope for a brighter tomorrow, devoid of conflict in an atmosphere of unity.

As we light our diyas, illuminate our homes, display our creativity through rangoli and enjoy the sweet-meats and cultural presentations by our Hindu brothers and sisters; let us use this opportunity to embrace our diversity as one of our greatest assets.

Diwali is a reminder that we can all contribute to making our country a better place, if we look beyond our differences and remind ourselves that we are all Guyanese.

The lights and diyas represent hope for all humankind, regardless of faith or ethnicity. Let us be the light we wish to see in others.

Shubh Diwali to all Guyanese!

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