Issued by: Office of the President
I convey my sincerest greetings to all Hindus in South Africa and the world over on the occasion of the Deepavali Festival.
The symbolic and spiritual significance of this Festival of Light transcends religious and national boundaries. It shows that light and good-will always triumph over evil and darkness. This is particularly poignant for our nation, which has only recently traversed the long tunnel of darkness into light.
I am confident that the joyous spirit that you share on this occasion will spill over the entire rainbow nation.
May Deepavali once more strengthen family ties, rejuvenate our spiritual forces and open the way for a new sparkle in our lives.
I wish you a Happy Deepavali!
Nelson Mandela President of the Republic of South Africa