分类： society

Trinidad and Tobago (TT) is set to celebrate Divali on October 20, 2025, a public holiday that has been observed since 1966. Known as the Festival of Lights, Divali continues to captivate the nation, whether celebrated at the iconic Divali Nagar or various other venues across the country. This festival not only promotes multiculturalism and secularism but has also become a cornerstone of TT’s cultural identity, fostering a deep connection between humanity and the divine. The teachings and philosophy of Divali, rooted in ancient spiritual texts, have historically provided hope, faith, and resilience, offering a timeless blueprint for addressing social, economic, cultural, and political challenges. As TT prepares for Divali 2025, the call for a spiritual revolution echoes louder than ever. The festival’s observance traces back 187 years to the arrival of the first East Indians from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, India. Their contributions have significantly shaped TT’s socio-economic landscape and established a rich religious and cultural heritage that continues to be cherished. The Indian diaspora proudly celebrates various religious observances, including Lord Ganesh Ustav, Lord Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Naumi, Lord Krishna Janamasti, and Holi. However, Divali stands out as a universal celebration that transcends a single day, urging humanity to embrace its sacred essence. Acharya Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji, in his work *The Footprints*, emphasizes the importance of awakening from lethargy and fostering harmony. As TT celebrates Divali, the nation renews its commitment to preserving Hinduism and Indian culture, inspired by the timeless words of Mahatma Gandhi, who aligned truth with the eternal light of Divali.

The Festival of Lights, Divali, stands as a powerful symbol of hope, emphasizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Originating from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning ‘row of lights,’ the festival centers on the deya, a traditional lamp that symbolizes the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of wisdom. As Trinidad and Tobago (TT) celebrates this vibrant occasion, it also grapples with pervasive societal issues such as crime, human trafficking, child abuse, and poverty. These challenges cast a shadow over the nation, yet the essence of Divali offers a poignant reminder of the potential for transformation through unity and individual action. Angelo Marcelle, in a heartfelt letter to the editor, calls on citizens to let their light shine, fostering hope and positive change. He urges leaders to collaborate for the greater good, emphasizing that collective efforts can drive societal progress. The letter also features inspiring quotes from Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Eleanor Roosevelt, reinforcing the message of personal responsibility and the power of light and love to overcome adversity. As TT celebrates Divali, the festival serves as a call to action for all to contribute to a brighter, more harmonious future.

In a heartfelt letter to the editor, Barry S. Bissessar from Fyzabad expressed his gratitude for the recent reduction in gasoline prices, a move announced by the Finance Minister during the budget presentation. For the first time in nearly a decade, Bissessar noted a palpable sense of relief as he filled his vehicle with gasoline on October 16. Previously, a $100 investment would yield a mere 16.75 litres of super gasoline, but on this occasion, the same amount provided 20 litres, marking a significant improvement. This reduction of $1 per litre has brought much-needed comfort to daily commuters who have endured years of financial strain. Bissessar extended his thanks to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, expressing confidence that the majority of the nation would join him in appreciating this timely relief.

Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath has launched a scathing critique of the People’s National Movement (PNM) administration’s vacation remedial programme, labeling it as an ‘expensive illusion’ marred by financial mismanagement and lack of accountability. Speaking during the budget debate in the House of Representatives on October 17, Dowlath refuted claims by former Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly that the current government had discontinued the programme. He revealed that the PNM’s initiative, titled ‘Re-Re-engaging For Success,’ left behind over $3.5 million in unpaid teacher stipends, $1.3 million owed for snacks, and $10.5 million in pending costs, with no verifiable impact data or clear objectives. Dowlath also highlighted the absence of four critical reports from various educational support divisions, further underscoring the programme’s inefficacy. In contrast, Dowlath introduced the government’s new Priority Schools Project, a data-driven initiative targeting 56 secondary schools and 187 primary schools for intensive support based on academic, attendance, and behavioral indicators. The project integrates literacy and numeracy recovery, teacher training, parental engagement, and school leadership development, all monitored through key performance indicators. Additionally, Dowlath praised the ministry’s July-August vacation repair programme, which completed a record 458 major and emergency repair projects across schools, addressing issues such as leaking roofs, rewiring, and sanitation. He also defended the government’s decision to extend the July-August school vacation by one week, emphasizing its role in ensuring curriculum balance and supporting the mental and emotional well-being of students and teachers.

A 28-year-old laborer, Bevaughn Joseph, tragically passed away on October 17 after sustaining severe injuries from a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) tank explosion at his home in Penal. The incident occurred on October 13 when a 20-pound gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen of his ground-floor apartment. Joseph was rushed to the San Fernando General Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery before succumbing to his injuries. A relative who heard the explosion found Joseph and his apartment engulfed in flames. Firefighters from the Mon Repos Fire Station responded promptly and extinguished the blaze. Investigations by WPC Benjamin of the Penal Police Station confirmed that the explosion was caused by the gas cylinder. This incident adds to a concerning surge in LPG-related accidents across Trinidad and Tobago this year, which have resulted in multiple injuries and at least three other fatalities. On October 16, Ramco Industries Ltd issued a statement expressing deep concern over the increasing number of such incidents, attributing them primarily to defective regulators and hoses. The company urged consumers to use only approved equipment, replace regulators every five years, and regularly inspect hoses for leaks or damage. Earlier this year, Ria George, 45, of Digity Trace in Penal, died nearly two months after being injured in a similar explosion. The National Petroleum Marketing Company has advised consumers to test new gas tanks for leaks using soapy water and report any defects immediately. Other victims include Raquel Babwah, 44, of Claxton Bay, and Naomi Aliyah Mya De Mille, 19, of Lopinot, who also lost their lives in LPG-related incidents.

As Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago and around the globe celebrate the vibrant festival of Divali on Monday, the fasting period concludes with a grand celebration marked by an array of delectable foods and sweets. In Trinidad and Tobago, a nation known for its cultural diversity, people from all backgrounds come together to partake in each other’s religious festivities, often preparing special treats to share and enjoy. This year, renowned culinary expert Wendy Rahamut shares her favorite traditional sweets to make the celebration even more memorable. Among the highlights are deep-fried Indian cookies infused with cardamom and cinnamon, known as Shakkar Para, and the creamy, indulgent Barfi. For those with a sweet tooth, Gulab Jamoon, a rich and syrupy dessert, is also a must-try. Each recipe is meticulously detailed, from the preparation of the dough to the final presentation, ensuring that these treats are not only delicious but also a true reflection of the festival’s spirit. These sweets, deeply rooted in tradition, offer a taste of cultural heritage and bring families and communities closer during this joyous occasion.

In a series of coordinated anti-crime operations across Trinidad and Tobago, law enforcement agencies have made significant strides in curbing criminal activities ahead of the Divali holiday weekend. On October 17, police units conducted extensive searches and intelligence-led operations, resulting in multiple arrests and the recovery of illegal firearms and ammunition.