Traditions such as Diwali celebrations helped shape our nation – PM Phillips

REMARKS BY THE HONOURABLE PRIME MINISTER, BRIGADIER (RET’D) MARK PHILLIPS 
ON THE OCCASION OF DIWALI 2026

I extend warm Diwali greetings to our Hindu brothers and sisters, on behalf of the Government of Guyana and my family.

Across our country, families are preparing their homes for worship and welcoming loved ones to share in this sacred festival. Thousands of diyas will illuminate our communities, continuing a tradition that generations of Guyanese have cherished and preserved.

Diwali is a time of spiritual renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness invites reflection on how we live and the choices we make. Its observance encourages us to overcome ignorance through knowledge and uphold goodness, even when it takes courage.

That message carries a personal responsibility. Peace in a home depends on how its members treat one another. Harmony in a community grows when neighbours show consideration and resolve their differences with respect. The values we honour during Diwali gain lasting meaning when they influence our conduct throughout the year.

This year, as Guyana marks sixty years of independence, we have further reason to reflect on the traditions that have helped shape our nation. Our Hindu community has made a lasting contribution to Guyanese life, sustaining its faith while sharing the beauty of its celebrations with the wider society. Many Guyanese have grown up looking forward to the Diwali motorcades and the welcome extended by Hindu friends and neighbours. These experiences build an appreciation of one another that begins in childhood and can last a lifetime.

I commend the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and the religious organisations whose work sustains these traditions. This year’s efforts to support Bal Nivas and expand the Dharmic Rama Krishna School through the Sabha’s Diwali fundraising programme put the festival’s spirit of service into practice. Helping a child grow up in safety, with access to education, is a meaningful investment in our country’s future.

As Guyana develops, we must keep that concern for people at the centre of our national life. Families should be able to look ahead with confidence, knowing that their children have opportunities to learn and build fulfilling lives here at home. Our Government remains committed to advancing that goal, and we value the contribution of faith-based organisations to the wellbeing of our communities.

During this festive season, I encourage those who can, to reach out to someone facing hardship. An invitation to share a meal or a visit to an elderly neighbour can bring comfort where it is needed. For families experiencing loss, such consideration may be especially welcome.

To the young people participating in this year’s celebrations, take the opportunity to learn about the beliefs behind the traditions. Ask questions of your elders and carry that understanding forward. The care you give to this inheritance will help preserve it for those who follow.

May this Diwali bring renewed faith and peace to your homes. May its light guide us towards greater understanding as we continue our work together as Guyanese.

I wish our Hindu brothers and sisters, and all who share in the celebrations, a blessed and joyous Diwali.
May God bless you all and our beloved Cooperative Republic of Guyana.