Tomorrow (Thursday 8 March 2012), Hindus all across the world will celebrate Phagwah. In Guyana, many non-Hindus will join in the celebrations. In the streets and in the temples we will shower each other with brilliant colours and water. We will eat and laugh together. Such is the power of religion to transcend and bridge racial and cultural barriers and all factors that seek to separate us.
Phagwah, or Holi is a time for thanksgiving, deep reflection and new beginnings. Hindus will give thanks for all the blessings they received over the past year. As they reflect on the past year, they will need to identify the evil forces that influence them and in so doing commit to a future where they pursue a virtuous living, one where they live in peace and harmony with all mankind and with the environment.
The Alliance For Change believes that these are values that all Guyanese can embrace. As a nation, Hindus and non-Hindus we have a lot to be thankful for – no natural disasters, no wars and generally our people co-exist peacefully.
As we celebrate Holi on Thursday, let us renew our commitment to peace and harmony. In the words of our National Pledge, “… to love my fellow citizens and to dedicate my energies towards the happiness and prosperity of Guyana.”
May the message of Phagwah reside eternally in our hearts and in our nation. Happy Holi to our Hindu brothers and sisters and to all Guyana!
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