Diwali is an opportunity for introspection–we must think about what we are doing for the betterment of our community and what part are we playing in the narrative of good over evil, light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair. It is not a festival of noise.’
A few days ago we celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, which signifies the triumph of good over evil, hope over despair and knowledge over ignorance. A festival of its kind is necessary in Guyana. The evil that permeates this land faces us daily. The despair many people are feeling is communicated verbally or by their actions. The various levels of ignorance create animosity, frustration and disrespect. Diwali is an opportunity not just for Hindus but the population as a whole to acknowledge our past and present, be honest about the issues we are facing, think of solutions and be the change we want to see.