Chief Secretary's Divali message: Become a better people

Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis, in recognition of the Hindu holiday Divali, called on members of the public to become a better people, regardless of who they are or where they live.

In a statement, Dennis said the lessons of Divali are many, which is why everyone celebrates alongside the Hindu community.

“It also focuses on personal enlightenment – the battle of knowledge over ignorance, a search for understanding and self-awareness that will help us achieve clarity in our own lives so that we, as members of families and communities, can all contribute to nation-building.”

He said Divali is also a unifying force for Trinidad and Tobago and an enduring example of religious acceptance.

“It champions compassion and giving, through the sharing of parsad by the Hindu community with family, friends, and neighbours. It reminds us how we should live with each other, and that we lose nothing by sharing the warmth of our flame with others. Finally, it urges us to adopt selflessness, introspection, hopefulness, togetherness and perseverance. To do this is to become a better people, regardless of who we are or where we live.”

He said many of the citizens, not just those in the Hindu community, would light deyas in celebration of Divali. He said it was heartening that it would occur in across the country, especially in the context of the current circumstances.

“Just as the world is facing the pandemic, so too is TT striving to overcome the darkness that has threatened our people for the past year and a half.”

Divali, he said, offers an opportunity for encouragement, introspection and hope, adding that just as Divali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over fear, the same approach must be taken if one is to overcome adversity.

“Our people have always risen to the occasion despite adversity. Our flame may flicker at times, but it has never gone out. Instead, it emerges brighter and stronger, revealing our tenacity and resilience as it dispels darkness.”

Today's challenges, he said, are unlike any in the past, and the road to recovery is long.

“Yet, we continue knowing that these hurdles will eventually be consigned to history. What people will remember most is how we light the way for the generations to come.

"Right now, places of worship are being reopened and safe zones are being rolled out. Each step restores a glimpse of normalcy to this country, and we should all feel encouraged.”