The India Post, CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 27:The Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, Gen. (Retd.) S.F. Rodrigues, PVSM VSM, extended his greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Deepavali and called for renewing our resolve to strengthen the bonds of friendship, amity and mutual trust, with the focus on sustaining the higher values of human conduct, for building a healthy and harmonious society.
Describing the ‘festival of lights’ as a symbol of peaceful co-existence, joy and prosperity, General Rodrigues said that it represents the victory of good over evil and the light over darkness and exhorts us to be truthful and righteous, in our thoughts and deeds. He said that this is an occasion for festivities & merrymaking and at the same time a time for introspection & self-analysis, to take corrective measures for our self-purification. As this festival is also considered the start of the New Year, we must renew our pledge to develop a progressive and positive outlook, to contribute for the good of the society and New Resurgent India.
Highlighting the significance and impact of this festival in our national life, General Rodrigues said that it reminds us of our glorious past and rich heritage, based on the values of unity, tolerance, mutual love and brotherhood. This festival instills in us the quality of being one despite being different, the underlying concept of ‘Unity in diversity’. This message is all the more relevant in the present context.
General Rodrigues appealed to the people to celebrate this festival in the true tradition of our composite culture and in an atmosphere of peace and harmony, rising above narrow considerations of caste, creed and religion.