Diwali, a row of lights, signifies the triumph of good over evil, darkness over light and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrating Diwali encourages one to look at their inner light and use it to illuminate the good in the world, just like clay lamps were used to light up Lord Rama’s path when he returned home with Sitha. The symbolism of Diwali was emphasised by speakers at the annual Diwali celebration held on Saturday at the Maha Gaythri Temple.

Estcourt Hindu Cultural Society President Sudarshan Bandu welcomed the audience by saying that the multi-faceted meaning of the ‘row of lights’ could translate to prosperity, peace, happiness and good health. Guest Tunusha Naidu was an inspiring speaker. She is blind and stressed that she did not let this disability hinder her from achieving her goals.

Ms Naidu is the owner of Abilities Beyond Life’s Expectation (ABLE), whose members enlighten communities about disabilities and also scope out public places where physically challenged people cannot gain access.

Basing her speech on her own experiences, Ms Naidu encouraged everyone to look beyond the physical appearance of the people we meet.
“People look at me and think, what can she do, she is blind but I have achieved so much. When you communicate with people, connect with your heart,” she said.

Dance items from the Any Body Can Dance group kept the audience cheering and applauding. One of the highlights for the afternoon was the performance by Keeran Eshwarlall, who is a student of Anup Jalota and also a finalist in the television series SA’s Got Talent.

His smooth voice had the audience clapping and singing along. The Diwali celebration concluded with supper.