Happy Deepavali

While Deepavali is popularly known as the "festival of lights", the most significant spiritual meaning is "the new year of luck and wealth". As such I wish all Hindus in Malaysia a new year of luck and wealth.

Though Malaysians all over is horrified with the recent arrest of the supporters of Hindraf-5, my prayer is for those who are arrested under the notorious Internal Security Act to continue to be strong and firm in their believe. They will be remembered by the people especially the weak not only Indians. I truly admire their courage and strength though they may be in the minority. But alone shaped Malaysia agenda in the recent 12th general election shifting the support of the Indian towards MIC and BN. I must say, they are not alone in their fight.

It is in my prayer that their hope be vindicated and our friends released from the ISA.

Central to Hindu philosophy is the assertion that there is something beyond the physical body and mind which is pure, infinite, and eternal, called the Atman. Just as we celebrate the birth of our physical being, Deepavali is the celebration of this Inner Light, in particular the knowing of which outshines all darkness (source : wikipedia). With the realization of the Atman comes universal compassion, love, and the awareness of the oneness of all things and this brings Ananda (Inner Joy or Peace).

Here, I concur with DAP Sec-Gen and Chief Minister of Penang who says, “We must insist that any government should show love for its people based on human dignity, compassion and a caring society.” He went further to say, “Together we shall continue to fight on a moral and ethical ground towards achieving equal opportunities, level playing field and social justice."

I now wish all Hindus, members and supporters, friends and colleagues, a blessed and happy Deepavali.