Timeless message of Diwali symbolises hope – South African President

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa has extended Diwali greetings to all Hindus across the world who are celebrating the festival of lights, while underscoring that it holds great significance to forming unified communities.
In his greetings, he stated that the messages of Diwali speak to renewal, and are timeless.
“As a nation of many cultures and faiths, we have a deep appreciation of the importance of Diwali and members of the Hindu faith. Diwali is a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness and has its roots in the story of Lord Rama’s return from banishment and exile,” Ramaphosa acknowledged.
According to the South African leader, the lighting of lamps, which is a tradition in Hindu homes during this time, symbolises hope.
“As we all look to the future with hope, we are reminded that we must hold fast to our unity as a nation and strive for tolerance and understanding regardless of race, religion, colour or any form of diversity. Diwali is a reminder of our own personal responsibility to bring light and hope to all those who suffer the effects of poverty, inequality, disadvantage and exclusion.”
In Guyana, Diwali is one of the biggest festivals, celebrated by thousands of homes. While there are many variations as to why it is celebrated, it symbolises the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance”.
Derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means “row of lights,” Diwali is known for the brightly burning clay lamps that Hindus use to decorate their homes and surroundings.