As Hindus across the world began celebrating Diwali (the festival of lights) on Friday, the presidency issued "warm greetings" and hoped the festival would inspire the country to continue its struggle for peace and harmony.
"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," said Essop Pahad, minister in the presidency.
Diwali, also called Deepavali, by tamils, celebrates the story of Rama and Sita's return to Ayodhya after his triumph over demon god Ravana, in a classic battle of good versus evil. Rama had been sent to exile for 14-years.
The festival also celebrates the end of spiritual darkness. Hindus decorate their homes with lamps, to symbolise the rows of lamps that were lit by the people of Ayodhya, to guide Rama on his way back home through a forest.
"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," Pahad said. - Sapa