As Fiji welcomes the joyous celebration of Diwali, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has emphasized the festival’s essential message of triumph, stating that it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In a recent interview, he expressed his warm wishes for the festival, encouraging all Fijians to embrace these themes as vital reminders of unity and shared purpose in the nation.
“We are looking forward to Diwali and we wish all our brothers and sisters a very happy Diwali,” Rabuka shared. He underscored the significance of Diwali, inviting everyone to reflect upon the celebration’s core principles as the nation progresses together.
Echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiments, newly appointed People’s Alliance Party president Ratu Josefa Dimuri reiterated that Diwali is a time not only for illumination but also for sharing and coming together as a community. During the party’s annual general meeting in Suva, Dimuri called on members to celebrate alongside the Hindu community, reinforcing the notion that Fiji is a multi-racial, multi-cultural nation.
“Diwali is coming up, and let’s celebrate with them as this is about one nation—the nation of Fiji,” he stated.
As preparations for the Festival of Lights commence, it is important to acknowledge the essence of Diwali as expressed by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, who reflected on the festival’s deeper meaning of unity within Fiji’s multicultural society. He highlighted that Diwali represents knowledge overcoming ignorance and goodness triumphing over evil—a message that resonates strongly amidst Fiji’s diverse background.
Seruiratu encouraged all citizens to infuse Diwali’s inspirational message into their everyday lives by fostering kindness, compassion, and understanding. He reinforced that the celebration should inspire everyone to recommit to principles of integrity, selflessness, and dedication to serving others in the community.
As families come together to share sweets and support one another, leaders like Seruiratu remind us that Diwali is not merely a time of festivity but also an opportune moment for reflection and mutual growth within society. He urged all Fijians to embrace the festival’s spirit in their daily interactions, ultimately fostering a more equitable society.
In a collective and warm spirit, leaders and citizens alike are called upon to prioritize safety during the celebrations, particularly when lighting diyas and fireworks. By taking necessary precautions, the community can ensure that this joyous occasion is remembered for its positivity and togetherness.
This Diwali stands as a poignant reminder of the power of unity and mutual respect, encouraging Fijians to come together in celebration and look forward to a future enriched by diversity, strength, and collaborative spirit.
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