Home News Celebrating all religious, cultural traditions in harmony is a strength to be...
…joins Region 6 Phagwah celebrations
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, participated in Phagwah celebrations across Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on Friday.
Among the places he visited were: the village of Bush Lot Farm; the Vishnu Mandir at Number 43 Village, where a mini-Mala was being held; the Shri Krishna Mandir at Number 59 Village; the mandir at Number 62 Village; the Shree Ganesh Mandir at Number 73 Village; and the Sanatan Mandir at Springlands. At all these places, Minister Singh played Holi with attendees and extended greetings on behalf of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
When he addressed the gathering at the Sanatan Mandir at Springlands, Dr Singh reflected on the historical and spiritual significance of Phagwah, and emphasized its global celebration and the values it represents.
He noted that the festival serves as a reminder of righteousness, resilience, and the triumph of good over evil as he drew on the story of Prahlad and Holika; and he reflected on his deep connection with the mandir as he reminisced on the numerous occasions he had visited, and how he has always felt welcome as part of the community.
He also acknowledged the presence of religious and community leaders, and recognized the contributions of past generations in establishing and maintaining the Mandir.
Highlighting the importance of education and hard work, the minister has encouraged young people to seize the opportunities available to them, and has urged them to build on the foundation laid by their ancestors just as the mandir has evolved from its modest beginnings into a vibrant place of worship.
He also reminded the gathering that personal and national success requires dedication and perseverance, and reaffirmed Government’s commitment to development by stating that efforts are not only focused on addressing present needs, but also on laying the groundwork for a better future.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, and has pledged that the administration led by President Ali would continue working to improve the lives of all Guyanese.
Minister Singh also visited the Arya Samaj Mandir at Crabwood Creek, where he spoke of the spiritual significance of Phagwah and noted its message of good triumphing over evil, perseverance in the face of adversity, and the importance of faith.
Further, he underscored the vibrancy of the festival and its role in fostering unity and cultural preservation as he reflected on Guyana’s unique diversity and noted that the country’s ability to celebrate various religious and cultural traditions in harmony is a strength that should be cherished and protected.
Encouraging young people to embrace their cultural heritage while also taking advantage of educational and economic opportunities available in the country’s evolving landscape, Dr Singh reiterated President Ali’s vision of “One Guyana” in ensuring national unity and inclusivity.
He is urging citizens to remain committed to the values of hard work, respect and perseverance, which are essential for both personal and national growth.
