Divali festively inaugurated with flying deities and giant dia on Onafhankelijkheidsplein

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On Saturday evening, Independence Square was transformed to celebrate Divali, the Festival of Lights honoring the goddess Lakshmi. The festivities were officially opened with a ceremonial ritual, where divine figures Ram and Sita lit a giant dia. Following this, Minister Krishna Mathoera, representing the President, added the first drops of ghee to the flame, honoring tradition.
The square was packed with hundreds of visitors, who enjoyed the vibrant Ramlila performance. The figures Ram, Sita, and Lachmon made a spectacular entrance, appearing to ‘fly’ in with the Pushpak fleet, joined by the flying Hanuman. The evening climaxed with a beautiful fireworks display lighting up the sky.
As tradition holds, ‘Ram and Sita’ have lit the Suriname Dia. Photo: Suriname surinameAnil Manorath, chairman of the Cultural Union of Suriname (CUS), shared that this marks the 18th year of the National Divali Celebration. This year’s theme is “Prosperity and Happiness.” “In the coming days, we will continue to pray for the world and for each individual, so that there will be prosperity and happiness, especially for Suriname and the Surinamese society,” said Manorath. He noted that Divali is a universal day, with the message of ‘victory of good over evil’ being non-religious.
In her speech, Mathoera explained that lighting dias and other lights on the darkest night of the year is a way to draw strength and hope. “We must bring light into our own lives, our surroundings, our homes, and into Suriname. Let’s also pursue goodness. We are not perfect, but we can learn from our mistakes and make efforts to stay positive and contribute positively,” said Mathoera. Divali, she said, should encourage people to see the light within themselves and in others.
President Chan Santokhi was not in the country but shared a video message played for those gathered on the square. In addition to the religious ceremony, there was also a cultural fair where visitors could explore the diversity of cultures and their products.
The giant dia will remain on Onafhankelijkheidsplein until October 31, where people will have the opportunity to add ghee to keep it burning. From the lighting onwards, there will be a variety of activities and performances each day through October 31 for visitors to enjoy.