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Political, religious leaders extend Deepavali greetings

On Deepavali, the country's political leaders, religious dignitaries and civil society leaders have extended greetings to the Hindu community.

In her message to mark this important day President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga has said that we are celebrating Deepavali at a decisive moment in our history. "Let us in the spirit of Deepavali, join hands to create a prosperous Sri Lanka based on the principle of peaceful co-existence," she said.

"I send my greetings to all of you on this very auspicious occasion and wish that this year's dawn of Deepavali festival would herald an era of peace and tranquillity to this country as a whole."

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in his message has said that on this day the Hindus believe that evil will be destroyed and good deeds and happiness will flourish.

"On this day let us strive to share our good will and enjoyment with our friends, relatives and neighbours and thereby establish mutual understanding and brotherhood."

The Prime Minister also exhorted Sri Lankans to create an environment where all communities in our country can live happily. Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapakse in a message said the fervent wish of the nation should be that Deepavali would bring the light of peace to all of Sri Lanka. "I wish that this Deepavali will bring peace and contentment to the Hindus as well as all of us," Rajapakse added.

Kandiah Neelakandan the General Secretary of the All Ceylon Hindus Congress said in a press release that Deepavali this year was significant as after several years of suffering the people of this country are experiencing an atmosphere of peace.

"Deepavali is a day on which injustice was destroyed and justice was restored in the World. It is a good opportunity that it falls at a time when the peace talks are going on and there is hope for a permanent peace in this country," he added.

"Let us pray on this holy day for the success of the peace talks and for permanent peace," he said.

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