Team Herald

PANJIM: Governor Mridula Sinha, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao have extended their greetings and good wishes to the people on the occasion of Diwali.

In her message, Sinha urged the people to re-dedicate themselves to the principle of ‘live and let live’ in the country and pledge to work for promoting peace, communal harmony, goodwill and prosperity.

“Diwali dispels darkness and brings light – the light of selflessness, truth, humility, happiness and peace. It is the festival restatement of the belief that the good ultimately triumphs over the evil,” she said. 

Parrikar, in his message said, “Diwali inspires us towards the path of truth and popularises the ideas of national unity and cohesion. On this solemn occasion let the lamp of compassion, love, and righteousness be illuminated and move forward on the path of progress and prosperity.”

Archbishop Ferrao also extended his wishes on behalf of the Catholic community. “On the occasion of yet another Festival of Lights – Deepawali – I am glad to send to our Hindu brethren, in my name and on behalf of the Catholic community of Goa, our warm greetings and wishes for a truly joyful feast,” he said. 

He added, “On this festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, of truth over falsehood and of light over darkness, it is my sincere wish and prayer that we, the people of this beautiful State of Goa, coming from various religious and cultural backgrounds, through our mutual respect, esteem and friendship, may become concrete examples and living proofs of harmony and peace for our fellow Indians throughout our land and beyond. At this time of renewal, of sharing and of joy, may we come together to work for peace, understanding and cooperation among ourselves and in the world at large.”