Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his warm wishes to the Hindu community in South Africa, celebrating Diwali/Deepavali 2024, emphasizing the importance of the festival in fostering unity and social progress.

According to South African Government News Agency, in his statement released on Thursday, President Ramaphosa highlighted the significance of the Festival of Lights, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil. He urged all South Africans to use this occasion to reaffirm their dedication to addressing societal inequalities, disadvantages, and challenges that affect not only the nation but also the global community.

The President acknowledged the core values upheld by the Hindu community, such as truth, love, peace, and non-violence, as fundamental principles for building a better nation and world. “The values of truth, love, peace and non-violence by which Hindus live and conduct themselves within family and community are values that are at the heart of creating a better country and a
better world,” he stated.

Concluding his message, President Ramaphosa wished the Hindu community a joyous Diwali, emphasizing the importance of celebrating life, family, and community during this festive period. “Happy Diwali and may this be a special time of celebrating life, family and community,” he added.