Deepavali: let light triumph over darkness, in our homes and in our hearts
When we stand together in light, darkness cannot win.
Deepavali has returned once more, illuminating every Hindu dwelling with oil lamps, vibrant kolams, the tantalizing scent of murukku, nei urundai, and payasam, and the joyous laughter of children in fresh attire, eagerly anticipating the initial explosion of fireworks. However, beyond the jubilation, Deepavali imparts an enduring lesson that cannot be ignored: light must always overcome darkness.
Thiruvalluvar eloquently expressed this sentiment over two millennia ago: Those who pursue the Divine shall be liberated from life's darkness. This darkness extends beyond our surroundings; it resides within us as well, manifesting as anger, jealousy, hatred, selfishness, and division. Deepavali serves as a reminder to kindle a lamp within ourselves first.
Beyond being a festival, Deepavali is a celebration of our identity for Malaysian Indians. It is a poignant reminder of our heritage, origins, and the torch we must pass down to our offspring. Our language, customs, values, faith - these are the lamps we must perpetually keep alight. Only recently, we witnessed the significance of preserving this light when a proposal to diminish Tamil language hours in our Tamil schools from 12 to 10 periods was met with united opposition from our community - teachers, parents, PTAs, leaders, and regular families alike.
I am indebted that the education ministry heeded our voices and refrained from implementing the change. This exemplifies the spirit of Deepavali: when we unite in light, darkness cannot prevail.
In Malaysia, Deepavali transcends being an Indian celebration. Our Malay, Chinese, Kadazan, Iban, and Orang Asli companions join us at our open houses, savor our cuisine, embrace Indian attire, and revel in our happiness. This is the true essence of Malaysia - unity in diversity, not merely in words, but within our homes. As a former deputy education minister, I have always championed the notion that our most formidable asset is our children.
If we instill in them respect for all races and religions, love for their mother tongue while embracing Bahasa Malaysia and English, kindness, and discipline, Malaysia’s future will shine brightly. This Deepavali, let us pledge three things: 1. Light a lamp for unity - let us reject hatred and division, embracing understanding instead.
2. Light a lamp for education - let us motivate our children to excel academically, master their mother tongue language, acquire knowledge, and be proud of their heritage. 3. Light a lamp for kindness - let us remember the destitute, lonely, and those facing hardships. Share a meal, visit an elderly care facility, assist a neighbor.
That is the authentic Deepavali. To all Malaysians, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a joyous Deepavali. May your abode be illuminated by light, your family brimming with love, and your life brimming with health and prosperity. P Kamalanathan, a former deputy education minister and a reader of FMT, shares these sentiments which are solely his own and do not necessarily mirror those of FMT.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
