Amidst global pandemic, celebrating Deepavali can be a consolation: President

At a time when the entire world is facing unprecedented difficulties due to COVID-19 pandemic, celebrating Deepavali festival would be an opportunity to observe and celebrate one’s own religious beliefs is, indeed, a consolation, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said. 

Issuing a message in view of Deepavali festival celebrated by Hindus in the country and across the globe, President Rajapaksa said that  he believes it would be a blessing for our objective to establish a righteous society and a healthy lifestyle in the country.

Hindu devotees across the globe light up lamps and engage in religious observances with the expectation of dispelling darkness of ignorance and illuminating wisdom.

“Deepavali festival is a renowned cultural celebration where the devotees extend wishes of enlightenment and share greetings with love and compassion. In my view, cultural festivals of this nature provide a great opportunity to build communal reconciliation and mutual understanding among the people and empower ethnic and religious harmony.” the message said. 

“I believe Hindu devotees living in the country and overseas would jointly commit themselves to God to seek solace during this Deepavali festive season..Finally, I wish all those who celebrate this festival of enlightenment would attain the inner peace they expect.”