“As we brighten our homes with diyas to remove every single bit of darkness to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, remember to remove the darkness that may be within you. Forgive, forget and let go of the darkness from within because that is what Diwali is truly all about”.
These were the sentiments of Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Veena Bhatnagar as she officiated at the Brahma Kumaris Rajyog Meditation Centre’s annual Diwali celebration.
“In true essence, the lighting of diyas actually symbolises self-enlightenment. Diwali is not about illuminating the most beautiful diya but it is about illuminating our hearts and minds free from negativity and ill feelings”, added Bhatnagar.
She went on to remind everyone that Diwali is a festival that teaches everyone to look out for each other and see beyond gender, race, religion, age, abilities and status and to do what is right.
"Today we have much to celebrate as we think of the triumph of our frontline health workers as we battled our second wave of the COVID pandemic, we think of all our essential workers and their families for all their sacrifices which enables us to celebrate Diwali as we know it." said Assistant Minister Bhatnagar.
She wished all Fijians around the country a prosperous, safe and a very happy Diwali.