President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the Hindu community of South Africa “a very happy and joyous Diwali” as the community celebrated their religious holiday of Diwali on Monday.
In a statement, Ramaphosa said Diwali celebrated “the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and righteousness over unrighteousness as enunciated in the Hindu Sacred text of Ramayana.”
“The universal message of Diwali resonates with all of us. It is a message of hope, love, caring for the wellbeing of all and working together for the mutual prosperity of all,” the Ramaphosa said.
According to the president, Diwali is a time when family and friends get together and celebrate “the joy of life through prayer, lighting of lamps, festivities, food, dance and music.”
One of the central messages of Diwali is the oneness of humanity and that all of life is equal and sacred, he added.
He noted that the Hindu community was an integral part of South Africa’s rich multicultural tapestry, having “made a significant contribution to our country since the arrival of indentured Indians to South Africa in 1860.”
“The community contributed immensely to our freedom struggle and are playing an important role today in nation building and the economic recovery and revitalisation of our country at a time of great challenges faced by the global community,” Ramaphosa said.
“The Diwali thus is a time to reflect and celebrate the joyous achievements of all in our country,” he said.
The celebrations come as South Africa is experiencing rolling power cuts, rising cost of living and an increase in violent crime and anti-foreigner sentiment.
NM/jn/APA