Online edition of Daily News

Swami Marudhasalam Adigalar from India welcomes Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe by wrapping a shawl on the Premier at yesterday's religious ceremony held at Kadireshan Hall, Bambalapitiya to mark the Deepavali Festival. The Premier was the chief guest on the occasion. Hindu Religious Affairs Minister T. Maheshwaran looks on.
Picture by Renuka Alwis.

Deepavali is the festival of peace, freedom and unity as evidenced in the Rig Veda, said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in a message to mark Deepavali.

The message states: "Today is the day Hindus of Sri Lanka as well as around the world, celebrate the Festival of Light - Deepavali, The festival itself signifies emergence from darkness to light and brightness and symbolises the destruction of evil, and the freedom of human beings from the shackles of slavery and bondage.

It also signifies the transition of the soul from darkness to enlightenment, and deliverance from suffering and sorrow.

Deepavali is the festival of peace, freedom and unity as evidenced in the Rig Veda. The peace process initiated by this Government has brought back hopes to our people and we are speeding towards normalisation, though there may be more obstacles to surmount. The people of this country particularly those from the Hindu faith have made a significant contribution in helping achieve this. This awareness has led to national reconciliation, unity and promotion of mutual understanding. The Ministry of Hindu Religious Affairs, since its re-establishment has mooted many such events during the last 20 months. One landmark event which I had the privilege to inaugurate was the Second World Hindu Conference, which received accolades from many quarters.

This year's festival will add to the tapestry of the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the Hindus in the past.

I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to the Hindu community in Sri Lanka and wish all a happy Deepavali."