THE Indian community in Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in celebrating Diwali Festival also known as the festival of lights in Harare, a symbolic event in the victory of good over bad
Across the globe, people of various religions mark the Hindi five-day festival of light through prayer, feasts, fireworks and, for some, it’s a new year celebrating light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
The Indian community, attested to inclusivity and unity these commemorations bring to the fore.
“We are happy as the Indian community in Zimbabwe to be sharing this day with everyone, it’s equivalent of Christmas victory of Light over evil,” said one of the Indian nationals residing in Zimbabwe.
Another added, “We are grateful to the government of Zimbabwe which has given us our second home to do business and grow. This is what the goddess of prosperity Lakshmi stands out for as we celebrate Diwali.”
“As Zimbabweans, we are happy to be participating in an inclusive festival that requires sharing, praying dining just like some do in Christmas,” said another Indian national.
Standing in for the First Lady Amai Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa Senator Monica Mutsvangwa spoke volumes on the contribution of the Indian community to Zimbabwe’s development
“The Indian community was involved in the freedom struggle of Zimbabwe and post-independence some of them served in government and as judges. In earlier days the community was largely composed of traders and shop keepers, however, with the adoption of our new policy Zimbabwe is open for business we have seen a lot of value-adding industries being set up by Indian business people and this is a welcome critical contribution to the new industrialisation drive of our country. On the medical front, we have seen Indian doctors establishing world-class facilities in Zimbabwe.
The festival was marked by Indian displays, traditional Indian music, and dance punctuated by lighting symbolizing the triumph of good over bad.
Source ZBC News
