President Ali calls on Guyanese to embrace ‘the light within’ this Diwali

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has extended warm Diwali greetings to all Guyanese, especially to the Hindu community, urging reflection on the deeper meaning of the Festival of Lights — the inner light of goodness, compassion, and unity that must continue to guide the nation forward.

In a heartfelt message titled “The Light Within That Gives True Purpose to the Lights Without,” President Ali said Diwali is a time that reminds everyone that light will always triumph over darkness and that goodness, knowledge, and virtue must forever prevail over ignorance, evil, and despair.

He reflected on the ancient roots of the festival, noting that Diwali originated as a harvest celebration in India before evolving into a festival rich in moral and spiritual significance. “Its origins reach deep into the soil of ancient India… a simple observance of gratitude that became a celebration of righteousness, wisdom and renewal,” the President stated.

Dr Ali highlighted the various traditions associated with Diwali, including the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, symbolising the victory of righteousness; the triumph of Lord Krishna over Narakasura, representing truth’s power over evil; and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, who bestows prosperity, wisdom, and peace upon those who live with integrity.

“Across all these traditions, the central message of Diwali reminds us that we must keep faith in the moral order of the universe, and that by lighting our own lamps of kindness and understanding, we help illuminate the world around us,” he said.

The Head of State also traced the history of Diwali in Guyana, recalling that it was brought by Indian indentured immigrants in the 19th century and has since blossomed into a cherished national celebration. Once a private observance, Diwali has become a unifying event marked by the illumination of homes, motorcades, shared prayers, and acts of goodwill among people of all backgrounds.

“Today, Diwali in Guyana is more than a religious observance. It has become a national celebration… a time when the spirit of togetherness shines brightest, reminding us of what we can achieve when we live in harmony and mutual respect,” President Ali affirmed.

However, he cautioned that amid the splendour of the celebrations, it is vital to remember the deeper meaning of Diwali — “the light within that gives true purpose to the lights without.” He said even a single diya, lit with sincerity, holds the power to dispel darkness, symbolising that goodness and humility need no extravagance to shine brightly.

“Diwali teaches us that it is not the abundance of lights, but the purity of the heart that lights them, which brings true illumination to our lives, homes, and our nation,” the President said.

Dr Ali concluded his message with a call for reflection and renewal. “May this Festival of Lights inspire every Guyanese to banish the darkness of hatred and division, and to let compassion, tolerance, and unity guide our nation forward. May the light of Diwali continue to shine brightly over our beloved Guyana,” he said.