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8 November 2007

It gives me great pleasure to convey warm greetings to the Hindu Community in South Africa and across the world who celebrate Deepavali this coming weekend Deepavali, or the festival of lights, marks the legendary return of Rama and Sita from exile to their homeland. The lamps that people placed along their path guided them home. The festival symbolises the victory of divine forces over those of wickedness, a celebration of good triumphing over evil.

The spirit of Deepavali has special significance for South Africa 13 years after liberation and well into a country in transition such as ours. Although freedom and democracy have been attained in South Africa, we are travelling the long road to ensure that we successfully secure economic prosperity, lasting peace, stability, social progress and equality for all our people.

May Deepavali spread light to all Hindus; to all the people of our country and on the African continent. May it revitalise the bonds of love and friendship and inspire us to continue our struggle for peace and harmony.

Happy Deepavali.

Issued by: The Presidency
8 November 2007