Diwali, one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals, is often marred by public anger because of the setting off of fireworks.

Ashwin Trikamjee, the president of the South Africa Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS), says that Diwali – celebrated this year on October 31 – is a time of great joy, peace and blessings. “To the Hindu community, Diwali signifies the triumph of righteousness over evil, and the return of Lord Ram, Mother Sita and Lakshman from 14 years of exile – beautifully depicted in the Ramayan and going back to time immemorial.

“Yet, every year, from certain quarters, Diwali elicits outrage, a lack of understanding and, sadly, a tirade of hate speech,” he says.

While the SAHMS discourages ‘big bangs’ and supports the responsible use of fireworks at Diwali, Trikamjee says they hope to educate the community on the rights of Hindus and the broader significance of Diwali to curb public animosity.

He says Hindus are asked to respect municipal by-laws and be mindful of fellow residents and their animals, while non-Hindus are asked to practice tolerance.

“Diwali signifies love, tolerance and goodness that dwells in every human heart.

“The Sabha is trying to avoid the racial attacks and conflicts of previous years. The focus will be on cultural tolerance and respect, as well as compliance with municipal by-laws. The SAHMS has commissioned a team of attorneys who have generously volunteered to assist the community in anticipation of racism and anti-Hindu sentiment that usually flares up during Diwali.

“It is our request that all pet owners exercise caution during this time, and take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of their animals. We ask all body corporates to ensure that Hindu residents within your properties are not discriminated against.”

Constitutional rights

Trikamjee says that all practices and observances are weighed against the provision of the South African Constitution.

“We are enjoined by our Constitution to ‘strive for a society built on the democratic values of human dignity, the achievement of equality, the advancement of human rights and freedom’. Chapter 2 of the Constitution sets out the basic human rights applicable to all. In terms of Section 9, everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection and benefit from the law.

“Section 15 contains the right to freedom of religion, which states that ‘everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion’. While Section 16 of the Constitution affords everyone the freedom of expression, this does not extend to ‘advocacy of hatred that is based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion, and that constitutes incitement to cause harm’,” he says.

Trikamjee says South Africa is struggling to heal from the divisions of apartheid and hate speech sows the seeds of division. “Hate speech is one of the most devastating modes of subverting the dignity and self-worth of human beings. This is so because hate speech marginalises and delegitimises individuals based on their membership of a group. This may diminish their social standing in the broader society, outside of the group with which they identify.”

He says Hindus have the right to celebrate, and to use fireworks responsibly. “It is one or two nights that as South Africans, we can enjoy the celebrations of the Hindu community. We trust that all those celebrating will do so responsibly.”

* Caxton Local Media wishes all Hindu readers a happy Diwali. May this festival of lights bring you joy, prosperity, and good health.