Express gratitude and applaud God’s creation: Arya

Festivals are a means of sharing, caring and acknowledgement of the fact that not all are equal, so as Holi is celebrated we must remember to recognise fulfilment, accept and overcome hurdles in life.

Those were the words of the University of Fiji (UoF) Registrar Kamlesh Arya while speaking during the Holi celebration held on the school premises in Saweni, Lautoka on Friday.

Mr Arya reminded the students that Holi is a festival of colours, the true colours of life, expressing gratitude and applauding God’s creation.

Mr Arya said Holi was a festival teaching us – lessons of life, of labour and rewards, of struggles and resilience - allows us to reflect, improve and become better.” “Holi is one of the many Hindu festivals celebrated world over in a variety of form and in diverse cultures,” he said.

“All Hindu festivals are rooted in nature or historical events of unparalleled magnitude. So this festival allows for the invitation to and acceptance of diversity, giving the occasion national strength.

“It is also about celebrating - human capacity, collectiveness, spirituality and social bonding.

“Holi is a festival celebrating providence - the harvest of grains which is the food for human consumption.”

Mr Arya’s message:

“May this celebration bring fulfilment to your aspirations, expectations and achievement? May your life be as colourful as the colours sprayed around on this festive day?” Karalaini Tavi