Deepavali Festival
8 November 2007
It gives me great pleasure to convey warm greetings to the Hindu Community
in South Africa and across the world who celebrate Deepavali this coming
weekend Deepavali, or the festival of lights, marks the legendary return of
Rama and Sita from exile to their homeland. The lamps that people placed along
their path guided them home. The festival symbolises the victory of divine
forces over those of wickedness, a celebration of good triumphing over
evil.
The spirit of Deepavali has special significance for South Africa 13 years
after liberation and well into a country in transition such as ours. Although
freedom and democracy have been attained in South Africa, we are travelling the
long road to ensure that we successfully secure economic prosperity, lasting
peace, stability, social progress and equality for all our people.
May Deepavali spread light to all Hindus; to all the people of our country
and on the African continent. May it revitalise the bonds of love and
friendship and inspire us to continue our struggle for peace and harmony.
Happy Deepavali.
Issued by: The Presidency
8 November 2007
