President Dr Irfaan Ali and his family on Friday evening hosted a Pre-Diwali Dinner and Cultural Presentation on the lawns of State House in Georgetown – an evening filled with light, love and togetherness as they celebrate the values that Diwali represents—hope, renewal and unity. Addressing invitees, the Head of State said, “Tonight, we gather to celebrate Diwali, a festival that illuminates not just homes and streets, but hearts and minds. Diwali reminds us that darkness can never overpower light and ignorance can never triumph over knowledge. Diwali at its heart is a celebration of light over darkness, of good over evil, of hope over despair.” He noted that the story of Lord Rama’s return after years of exile and the triumph of righteousness carries a universal message, teaching that truth and justice will always prevail, even when the night seems long.
“It says that goodness will always find its way in our homes. In a broader sense, Diwali speaks directly to our national journey to build One Guyana – a nation where every citizen, regardless of race, religion or region, feels included and valued.”
“When we share in each other’s celebrations, we tear down walls and build bridges. The spirit of Diwali reminds us that light is meant to be shared. And that when one lamp is lit, it can light a thousand more without losing its flame. So, let us be the lamps that light our country’s path forward – together, brighter [and] united.” To this end, President Ali encouraged attendees at Friday night’s festivities to renew their commitment to mutual respect, compassion and understanding. He called them to ensure that the light they celebrate shines far beyond the lawns of State House into every home, every community and every heart across the country.
The Guyanese leader noted, “For a nation illuminated by unity will never walk in darkness. Unity is the brightest light people can possess. When citizens stand together, they become each other’s strength. In unity, we find the power to overcome every obstacle, to rise above division and to face uncertainty with confidence and hope. A divided country stumbles in confusion, but a united nation strides boldly forward. Where there is unity, there is clarity. Where there is togetherness, there is triumph. Where there is One Guyana, there can be no darkness.” President Ali went on to note that Friday evening’s Diwali celebrations at State House is part of his family’s practice to commemorate major religious and cultural festivals in Guyana at the ‘people’s house’. This, he explained, is done as a gesture of profound respect for the faiths and traditions that enrich the nation.
“I believe that when we honour each other’s beliefs, we strengthen the bonds that hold us together as ‘One People’. We do this because Guyana is a country in which every religion, every culture, every tradition adds its own melody to our national life.” According to the Head of State, Guyana’s diversity is not a challenge to overcome but must be seen as a blessing to celebrate. “Hosting these observances at Statehouse symbolises something larger. It says to every Guyanese, regardless of faith and ethnicity, this country belongs to you. This is your home. Your culture matters. Your presence enriches our Republic…”
“When we gather here, we are one of the same and we are celebrating each other. And as important as we celebrate each other, that we enjoy each other’s company. And that is what is going to build our country in the strongest possible way, when we enjoy being in each other’s company.” During the celebration on Friday evening, persons were treated to mouth-watering sweet meats and seven curry – a traditional Guyanese meal served during Hindu events.
They also witnessed vibrant and energetic cultural performances such as singing and dancing from talented local artistes as well as the Vraj Sanskritik Group out of Uttar Pradesh, India, who showcased their unique Diya Dance and Mayur Nritya from the region where most Indo-Guyanese ancestors came. The group is currently on a cultural exchange programme in Guyana. Pre-Diwali Dinner and Cultural Presentation on the lawns of State House in Georgetown was hosted in partnership with Banks DIH Limited. The local beverage company will be celebrating a special anniversary next year and will be integrating their products into every national event that will be hosted throughout the year.
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