Goa CM, Governor extend Diwali greetings

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and Governor Mridula Sinha on Monday extended their greetings and good wishes to people of Goa on the eve of Diwali.

In his greetings message, the Chief Minister said, ''Diwali is a festival that illuminates people's minds and hearts with the spirit of oneness and joy. May the festival of lights fills homes of the people with happiness, peace and prosperity."

Goa Governor also extended her good wishes to the people.

In her message, the Governor said India is known for a myriad of festivals and Diwali is one of the most popular one.

"Diwali or Deepavali also known as the festival of lights, and is the biggest festival celebrated around the world. People from all walks of life decorate their homes with "diyas", earthenware oil lamps and candles.It is a five-day festival, celebrated to commemorate the return of Shri Ram, the lord of virtue, to his kingdom after 14 years of exile," she said.

"For some parts in India, it also marks the end of the harvest season and is the chance to give thanks by the farmers to Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. While the story behind Diwali and the manner of celebration varies from region to region, the festival is celebrated to remember that light triumphs over dark and good triumphs over evil. The carnival of lights is all about celebrating the power of love, honesty and happiness. All the religions in India celebrate this festival. Diwali is like the national carnival of India and the popularity of this festival is not only limited to India," she added.

"In India, Diwali is spectacular not just in terms of celebration but also in spends. It's a time for family and friends to get together and exchange delightful gifts. Buying goods and gifting to loved ones is an age-old tradition and is considered auspicious. Similarly, I would also like to mention that during festive seasons, when most of us think about our clothes, our house, and our happiness, we forget to include the less fortunate in our thoughts. This Diwali, let's take charge and reach out to the underprivileged people and spread smiles through at least some charity and sharing, in however small way we can. Such noble deeds, not only lifts the festive mood but also contributes to humanity, which is our duty" the Governor said.

"Diwali is a festival which gives a significant message of evil being defeated by the good, in the same way we must try to eradicate the evils like jealousy, corruption, racism, violence etc from the society and create a positive atmosphere of amity, brotherhood, and mutual understanding which will strengthen the society and the country as whole" she added.

"May the celebrations of Diwali this year help in bringing people closer and making life prosperous and happy" the Governor concluded.

The festival of lights, Diwali, will be celebrated on November 7 this year.