Acting President Wade Mark delivered a heartfelt national message in honor of Divali, the Festival of Lights, urging citizens to embrace the spiritual and communal significance of the celebration. Speaking on October 11, Mark highlighted the festival’s core themes of light triumphing over darkness, unity, and compassion. He emphasized that Divali, which commemorates the return of Lord Rama and Mother Sita to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, symbolizes resilience, duty, and the enduring strength of family and community bonds. Mark described the lighting of deyas (oil lamps) as a powerful tradition that serves as a reminder of the ability of even a single light to dispel darkness. He encouraged citizens to embody this light by fostering love, understanding, and peace in their communities. The acting president also noted the widespread celebrations across the nation, with thousands illuminating their homes and businesses while offering prayers to Mother Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Mark called for both personal and national transformation, urging citizens to reflect on values such as freedom, integrity, truth, and justice. He emphasized that Divali’s true essence lies not only in lighting physical lamps but also in keeping one’s spiritual light radiant. Mark concluded his message by extending warm greetings on behalf of President Christine Kangaloo and his family, wishing the Hindu community and the nation a joyous and holy Divali. ‘May the joy and peace of Divali fill all homes throughout the nation. Shubh Divali!’ he said.