President Bharrat Jagdeo last evening noted that society is facing “innumerable challenges” and he expressed the hope that the prayers of Deepavali will “imbue us with strength and courage to grapple with the problems, confident that we will overcome them.”

The President in his Deepavali message said he hoped the celebration with the myriad of ignited diyas, “will illuminate our surroundings and environment, thereby presenting a changed atmosphere.”

He said that festivals possess the charm for renewing “our faith and spirit and can influence harmony which is a prerequisite in our battle against poverty and insufficiency.  I am of the view that once we apply our visions and work closely with each other, the battle will be ultimately won.”

And while Deepavali is a Hindu festival, the President pointed out that it has a universal appeal, which can influence people of all beliefs and faiths to work harmoniously in the building and construction of a viable nation.  “I, therefore, welcome the celebration of the Festival of Lights and trust that it will so impact the society, so that wherever darkness exists, the light of Deepavali will illuminate gloriously and bring to the society qualities of love, harmony, unity, and peace.”