President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has extended his Deepavali greetings to Hindus in Sri Lanka and around the world, calling for greater unity, compassion and justice in society.
In his Deepavali message issued today (November 8), the President said the festival provides an opportunity to renew the commitment to building a better, fairer and more compassionate society by choosing kindness over hatred, coexistence over division and justice over injustice.
He said the true meaning of Deepavali goes beyond illuminating homes with oil lamps and lies in kindling the light of love, compassion, brotherhood and humanity in people’s hearts.
Referring to the Hindu belief commemorating Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, the President said the festival symbolises the triumph of righteousness over unrighteousness and the hope that darkness will be dispelled from people’s hearts.
He said the Government remained committed to bringing positive change across the social, economic and political spheres while building a country that respects all religious and cultural identities and treats everyone with equality and dignity.
The President also expressed hope that Sri Lanka’s journey towards becoming an “Island of Peace and Humanity”, strengthened economically and socially and standing with dignity before the world, would be further illuminated by the lamps lit during Deepavali.
He wished all Hindu devotees in Sri Lanka and around the world a peaceful, joyful and prosperous Deepavali. (Newswire)
