Diwali celebrations commenced last evening with the symbolic decorative lighting of trees in the Camp Street Avenue near Church Street and a cultural presentation, ‘Diwali Galee’ hosted by the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.
Speaking at the event GT&T Chief Executive Officer, Radha Krishna Sharma said Diwali is a sacred occasion on the religious calendar for Hindus, where people give expression to their happiness by lighting Diyas or lamps, as a way of giving thanks for health, wealth, knowledge, and peace. He added that the Hindu tradition encourages its followers to speak
for moral truth wherever it may be found.
Additionally Sharma said, the significance of Diwali is the removal of darkness and ignorance from the mind, and filling it with goodness. He further mentioned that the lighted lamps shine not only to emanate light outwards, but also in our hearts. “So that we can conquer our own pockets of darkness and embark on the eternal journey, necessary for us individually and collectively to be the light of peace justice and healing for our world.”
Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali stated that events like Diwali are important “as we seek to attract more persons to our country.” He said the celebration of Diwali cannot be a one day event, but rather a unique experience that will drive traffic to it. The minister added that he hopes the light would ignite in all, “the important of love, unity, a new resolve… to build a Guyana that is free from developmental stops and one that is filled with the beauty that a lighted environment brings with it.” Moreover, Ali urged all to rededicate to the effort of development.
Also in attendance were Minister of Culture Dr Frank Anthony; Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who joined Sharma in switching on the lights; among other dignitaries.
