Yesterday, Hindus across the country and around the world celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights. It was a day of colour, devotion, and joy, and once again, it reminded us of the values that bind us together as a nation.
We have lived long enough alongside one another to understand the meaning of this special day. We have seen the effort, emotion, and love that go into preparing for it. We know how families clean their homes, light diyas, share sweets, and come together in prayer. And even if we do not share the same faith, we share in the joy of the occasion, because that is who we are as Fijians.
Diwali is more than a religious celebration. It is a story of good triumphing over evil, of light conquering darkness, and of hope rising above despair. It speaks to the very core of what it means to live as decent, compassionate human beings.
In Fiji, it is also a reflection of our shared identity, a celebration of harmony and coexistence in a country made stronger by its diversity.
We talk a lot about our multicultural society as something to be proud of, and rightly so. Few places in the world can claim the same level of shared respect and understanding that we enjoy here. We may have different religious practices or customs, but the beauty of Fiji lies in how those differences blend.
Every year, during Diwali, we see this unity in action. Neighbours greet each other, families share food, and communities come alive with the glow of light and laughter. This act of celebrating together is an unspoken message, that despite what may separate us on paper, we are bound by friendship, empathy, and mutual respect.
But as with all celebrations, Diwali also calls for reflection. It challenges us to look at the darker corners of our lives, to acknowledge prejudice, misunderstanding, or bitterness that sometimes creep in and to choose light. It reminds us that harmony requires effort, and that unity is built on daily acts of kindness and acceptance. This is where the real meaning of Diwali lies for us all.
It reminds us that being Fijian is not defined by one’s religion or ethnicity, but by how we treat one another, how we care for our communities, and how we live out the values of respect and compassion.
As we look ahead, let us carry the light of Diwali beyond the celebrations. Let us continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and understanding that make our country unique. Let us speak to one another with respect, stand by one another in difficult times, and teach our children the importance of unity and peace.
The Festival of Lights offers us a reminder of who we are and who we can be when we walk together.
On behalf of The Fiji Times family, we wish all our Hindu brothers and sisters the very best. May the lights that brightened your homes continue to light our path as a nation.
May we hold on to that light, as neighbours, as friends, and as proud Fijians, united by hope, strengthened by love, and guided by the spirit of togetherness.
