PANJIM: Goa is set to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights on Tuesday, following burning of effigies of the demon king Narkasur on Monday night. Many parts of the country will celebrate the festival a day later. Laxmi pujan, however, will be celebrated on November 11 all over the country.
The confusion in the date of Diwali resulted due to a disparity in the dates of the festival as set by the Hindu Maha Sabha and Hindu calendar/astrological almanac.
Governor Mridula Sinha, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar and Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao have greeted the citizens on the occasion of Diwali, which signifies the human journey from darkness to light, and victory of good over the evil within every human being.
Sinha in her message said Diwali is an important and happy occasion integrally linked to our cultural and traditional life. “The Diwali lights not only beautify the physical surroundings, but also dissipate the darkness, ignorance and evil from society. The celebrations of such significant national festivals like Diwali have played a vital role in promoting social solidarity, national unity and in fostering love of friendship and fellowship among the people,” she said. The Governor added that Goa is a place of peace and harmony.
Parsekar extended his greetings and said that the festival of lights signifies the triumph of good over evil. “Let this celebration of Diwali inspire us to follow the path of righteousness and share joy among our fellow countrymen. May the divine glow of Diwali illuminate our lives in all spheres and may Devi Laxmi bless us all with good health, prosperity and happiness,” he said.
In his message, Ferrao said, “I pray that this celebration may serve to create an environment of peace and harmony, especially today, when the whole world is in turmoil, due to intolerance that creates a reign of insecurity and terror.”
Hindu households across the State were seen decorated with a fresh coat of paint, clay lamps illuminated with oil, and attractive akash kandils or sky lanterns were perched atop the houses. Colourful patterns as well as designs of rangoli, and series of electrical lights could also be seen.
Diwali eve also saw large effigies of the mythological demon king Narkasur across the State. Almost every town hosted contests involving Narkasur effigies, with attractive prizes for the participants.
