Being a unifying force, the devotions at Deepavali would seek to encourage greater unity, amity and understanding among all people inhabiting our country irrespective of their ethnic, religious, class distinctions, says President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a Deepavali Message.

On this noble day let us reaffirm our commitment to unite the country and build a society where everybody could live in peace, harmony, dignity and freedom, he further adds.

The message in full:

I am pleased to extend my greetings to all Sri Lankan Hindus on the occasion of Deepavali. A significant event in the Hindu religious calendar, Deepavali celebrates prosperity and spreads the light of wisdom. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.

Being a unifying force, the devotions at Deepavali would seek to encourage greater unity, amity and understanding among all people inhabiting our country irrespective of their ethnic, religious, class distinctions.

On this noble day let us reaffirm our commitment to unite the country and build a society where everybody could live in peace, harmony, dignity and freedom.

May the spirit of Deepavali, the ‘Festival of Lights’ illuminate our land.

I wish a happy Deepavali to all Sri Lankan Hindus.