With the Covid-19 lockdown no longer in force, thousands of Essequibians celebrated the Hindu Festival, Diwali, or Festival of Lights as diyas were lit at homes Monday night across the ancient county and families came out to celebrate.
Many families began their preparation for the festival by performing Lakshmi Puja at Mandirs along the coast. Pandit in charge of Affiance’s Vishnu Mandir and President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic, Sabha Kaydar Persaud, said that Lakshmi Puja is essential during the festival since the Hindu goddess bestows her followers with prosperity, good health and wealth. Then in the evening, families were observed lighting diyas as early as 18:00 hours.
When this newspaper drove through several of communities, many persons were seen lighting the earthen lamps. Many persons also made Rangoli in front of their homes. Diya’s were placed in lines as a way of welcoming the goddess. Sweetmeats were also prepared and shared with relatives and friends. Children were seen excited with their firecrackers and sound effects toys and lighting. The festival which is celebrated for decades has augur well and has proven to bring families and persons together with its auspiciousness.
Leading up to the festival many housewives had cleaned their homes and surroundings to welcome the Hindu goddess. According to tradition, the goddess enters only the homes of devotees that are clean and sends positive energies. Pandit Persaud said that the festival is important and auspicious since it is believed that the Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean “Samudra Manthan”. The ocean was churn by the demons and gods as mentioned in the Puranas. It symbolizes good over evil and the restoration of good will and peace.
