Deepavali marks humanity’s progress in the struggle for a better life in accordance with the highest values of Hinduism. In Sri Lanka, progress is tied to “peace and harmony”.
“Somehow the war between the government forces and the LTTE is over now. But we need lasting peace,” a Hindu priest in Colombo said. To get it, “our rulers and leaders must think and act together for the sake” of the nation.
During the celebrations across the country, Hindu worshippers lighted colourful lights in their homed as way to remind everyone of the true meaning of the Festival of Light.
Menaka Mookandi, a young Hindu from Colombo, said she prayed “for lasting peace and harmony.”
In wishing a “Happy Deepavali” to his “Hindu brothers”, Fr Mari Anthony, Jesuit provincial for Sri Lanka, said he was praying so that “people of good will,” moved by a spirit of “courage and hope”, can fight “against evil in society”.
A 46-year-old Tamil mother said her best wishes went to “all the displaced people living in refugee camps”, that they be able to celebrate the festival in complete freedom and in their homes.
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa also spoke on Deepavali. “Today,” he said, “our society is able to celebrate this great festival with a spirit of unity that is marked by increased harmony and understanding among all of our people, irrespective of ethnic, religious and other differences that have kept them apart for a long period."