Paras Ramoutar
PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD/TOBAGO, October 31, 2016 (Paras Ramoutar): Trinidad was ablaze on Saturday night as the Hindu community celebrated, Diwali, the annual Festival of Lights as homes, public places, corporate, government and individuals lit hundreds of thousands of diyas. There were the bursting of bamboo and fireworks, banners, plays and, Lakshmi Puja, literally in every home and the like, combined with the ever flickering diyas adding a new dimension to Diwali 2016, a public holiday since 1966.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, in his message, pointed out that Diwali has become part of our rich heritage. “Filled with the light of hope, we too, can face our challenges boldly, courageously and fearlessly to emerge with a single-minded focus on building a strong, united and prosperous nation.”
Newly-accredited Indian High Commissioner, Shri Bishwadip Dey said that Diwali, the Festival of Lights, gives us an expression of happiness and a sense of attainment. “As we light rows of diyas, it is believed we attain good health, wealth, knowledge, peace and happiness. Darkness represents ignorance, and light is a metaphor for knowledge.”