Diwali marks one of the most exciting and festive times to be a Fijian as we celebrate this joyous national holiday. All over Fiji, we will be lighting candles, setting off fireworks and spending time with our friends, family and communities as we recognise this important festival in the Hindu calendar.

Diwali presents an opportunity to come together and share in the joy of our Hindu brothers and sisters to observe the “Festival of Lights.”

This beloved holiday represents the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, happiness over sorrow. Diwali has always brought Fijians together, as a nation and as a people, to rejoice and give thanks for the all the magnificent blessings that have been bestowed upon us.

It is a time for reflection, to treasure all the things that matter most – the things we do not always have the time to appreciate. It’s also a time to strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together – to be kind to others and extend hospitality to our neighbours.

I am proud of how openly we embrace each other’s festivities and how respectful we are of each other. It is part of what it means to be Fijian. On days such as this, it is evident that faith is a positive and unifying force in our society.

This year, let us once again live that spirit of peace and harmony as we celebrate this important national day. I wish all Fijians a joyful Diwali.