Issued by the Presidency
12 November 2001
On behalf of all South Africans, I wish to convey warm greetings to the Hindu community of South Africa and across the world that celebrate Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, on 14th and 15th November 2001.
The celebration marking the legendary return of Lord Ram and Sita from exile to their homeland symbolizes the victory of divine forces over those of wicked oppression, and good triumphing over evil.
South Africans can well relate to this experience having emerged from a period of intense oppression. Many of us know only too well the pain of a long and arduous exile.
The role of the Hindu community in the struggle for freedom and also in the economic life of our country must be commended. Your spirit of hard work and self-reliance can today, in earnest, stand the whole nation in good stead. May you continue, together with all other South Africans, to light the lamps leading towards a better life for all in our beloved country.
As you celebrate Diwali with your families and friends, remember to give thanks for being part of the path towards Freedom and Democracy in South Africa.
Happy Diwali
Thabo Mbeki
President
Republic Of South Africa