Minister of Human Services and Social Security and President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud on Wednesday evening said Diwali signifies the unifying of people from different backgrounds and beliefs.
Dr. Persaud was at the speaking at the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT’s) “Diya Light-up” ceremony hosted in the compound of the company’s Brickdam, Georgetown location.
“As we light a symbolic diya one of the prayers that comes to my mind is from…leads us from darkness to light, Oh Lord and it is a prayer that resonates with everyone irrespective of your faith or belief because we always want to be a society, community or wider country that moves people from the negatives, difficulties to light,” the Minister was quoted by DPI as saying.
Chief Executive Officer of GTT, Mr. Justin Nedd, said the ceremony is particularly poignant this year. “We are at a time in the country where we will really see significant growth, I think it is a great time for the country and Diwali means really the knowledge over ignorance…I urge you to seek knowledge,” he said.
Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine and other officials also attended the ceremony, DPI reported.
Although a motorcade will not be held this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, patrons were still able to enjoy a cultural performance by the Ishara Dance Group.
In addition, a virtual event will be aired on Friday at 8pm.
