Last month it was wonderful to attend some fantastic Diwali celebrations to learn more about the festival and to spend time with friends in the local community.
Diwali is a festival celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs. It is a festival of light that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Interfaith Week has just been and I want to take this time to share the importance of learning about other religions and sharing in their celebrations.
In doing so, we can share joy and the message of peace, coming to understand the differences between us so that we can be more united.
I learnt more this year about how Diwali is celebrated through giving and coming together with loved ones to cook delicious food, spend quality time together and light up the night.
I have lodged a motion of congratulations to all those involved in making Edinburgh Diwali 2022 as great as it was, particularly the Edinburgh Diwali Committee and its President, Mr Rajnish Singh. You can see more here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/votes-and-motions/S6M-06770
A massive congratulations once again to the Edinburgh Hindu Mandir and Edinburgh Diwali Parade for making Edinburgh Diwali 2022 a successful event. It was great to see that the parade had over 300 participants, including the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Consul General of India, MSPs and Councillors.
Thank you to all those who contributed and invited us to celebrate their festival with them. I’d encourage you all to reach out to local communities around you and find out how you can become involved in understanding more about each other’s religious customs, holidays and beliefs.
