Prime Minister’s Message on the Occasion of Divali 2017

GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

MESSAGE TO THE NATION

FROM DR THE HONOURABLE KEITH ROWLEY

PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

ON THE OCCASION OF

DIVALI 2017

On this Divali day, on behalf of the people and Government of Trinidad and Tobago, I offer warm greetings to our Hindu community. Today we join you as you celebrate one of the most significant religious observances on the Hindu calendar. I am always heartened to note that Divali is enjoyed by both Hindus and non-Hindus across the country, as persons journey to family and friends to share a meal and witness the remarkable displays of lighted deyas.

It is often said that the darkest room may be pierced by the smallest light. At this time of Divali when our homes, streets and communities are filled with the lights of thousands of deyas, we are also reminded that our most effective and radiant light is the one which emanates from within. It is the light borne from self-improvement, self-study and the acquiring of spiritual knowledge which allows us to grow in wisdom and faith.

During the course of life, we are faced with many choices. We may be drawn to a life dominated by fear, anger, violence, malice and temptation to do wrong or one of hope, righteousness, empowerment and enlightenment. At times it may not be easy to choose what is right, noble and just but the spiritual teachings of Divali show us; goodness will always conquer evil; light will dispel darkness; prayer and perseverance will fill us with the courage to overcome all challenges.

As intricate as the bamboo designs which hold Divali night’s deyas, so too human life is a complex web of joy and anger, pleasure and pain, decline and growth, darkness and light. Today as communities and as a Nation, we embrace the light. But after our festivities, let us continue to nourish that light in our hearts and allow it to radiate throughout every corner of our country bringing peace, success and prosperity to all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

Shubh Divali to the Hindu community and may God continue to bless each citizen of Trinidad and Tobago.