标签： Suriname

In a vibrant celebration of cultural unity, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname marked the 18th annual Divali Festival by adding ghee to the ceremonial Suriname dia on Saturday evening at Independence Square. The event, organized by the Cultural Union Suriname, drew a large crowd eager to witness the symbolic arrival of Ram, Sita, and Hanuman, key figures in the Ramlila tradition.

In her address, President Simons emphasized the unifying power of light in a diverse society. ‘No matter how small the light may be, where there is light, darkness cannot exist. Even the tiniest light can dispel the deepest shadows,’ she remarked. She highlighted Suriname’s rich cultural tapestry and its numerous festivals of light, all of which share a profound message of hope and unity.

President Simons urged the community to look beyond religious differences, stating, ‘There are not thousands of lights, but one divine light that we symbolize in every dia. We must also be that light for one another.’ She expressed her hope that the festival would not only illuminate homes but also hearts, fostering a spirit of togetherness and happiness.

The festivities, which continue today, serve as a reminder of the importance of unity and the shared values that bind the Surinamese people. The event underscores the nation’s commitment to celebrating its diverse heritage while promoting a collective vision of a brighter future.

The Diaspora Homecoming Summit Suriname commenced on Saturday in Paranam, marking a significant step towards fostering growth, hope, and sustainable collaboration between the diaspora and local communities. Held at the G.A. Kortschool in La Vigilantia, the event was inaugurated with the symbolic planting of a tree by the Diaspora Institute Netherlands (DIN) and the Diaspora Institute Suriname (DIS), alongside local partners. This gesture underscores the project’s commitment to youth empowerment and community development in Paranam. The initiative’s first phase includes the renovation of a classroom equipped with modern educational tools such as computers, school supplies, and a smartboard. Additionally, two students have been awarded full scholarships for four years, while an exchange program with a school in the Netherlands aims to provide international learning experiences. A second pillar of the project focuses on nutrition and agriculture. Through microcredits, local farmers are supported in cultivating papaya, cassava, and soeptayer, with the harvest used to provide students with nutritious soup and fresh fruit weekly, and eventually daily. The initiative also aims to establish a sustainable processing chain, including a pulp machine and freezing facilities, to ensure year-round access to healthy food. Organizers envision the Paranam model as a blueprint for other communities across the country, emphasizing that what begins with one tree, one classroom, and two students can grow into a movement that benefits generations to come.

Diwali, often referred to as the ‘Festival of Lights,’ is one of India’s most cherished celebrations, observed globally with immense enthusiasm. This year, the festival falls on Monday, October 20, aligning with the lunar calendar. Often compared to Christmas and New Year combined, Diwali carries a profound message of brotherly love, peace, mutual respect, and unity. Both festivals emphasize renewal, the strengthening of family bonds, and the exchange of gifts, blessings, and good wishes. The vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by new clothes, sweets, and colorful decorations.

The five-star expedition cruise ship SH Vega made a brief stop in Suriname on Friday, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tourism sector. Over a hundred passengers explored the historic inner city of Paramaribo and the Peperpot plantation in Commewijne during the short visit. Although the ship stayed for only a few hours, it is expected to return next year for a longer stay of at least two days, according to the organizers. Dinesh Ramlal, Director of Travel The Guianas, hailed this as a breakthrough for Suriname’s potential as a cruise destination. He emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, including a dedicated cruise terminal at the Waterkant, which he believes is ideal for accommodating larger vessels. During the visit, a traditional maritime ceremony took place aboard the SH Vega, involving the exchange of plaques between Ramlal, a representative of the Port Authority, and Captain Oleksii Varyvoda. The ship, en route to Antarctica via Guyana and Brazil, entered the Suriname River at 4:00 AM and departed at 2:00 PM. Ramlal described the ship’s arrival as the culmination of years of effort to position Suriname on the radar of international cruise companies. He highlighted the growing interest among travelers but stressed the need for better presentation of the country’s unique offerings. “Suriname’s inner city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Peperpot offers an authentic nature experience—these are invaluable assets,” he said. However, Ramlal acknowledged that Suriname’s tourism sector is still in its infancy, requiring improved marketing, branding, and a clear strategy. He also called for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector, citing Guyana’s example of welcoming passengers with cultural performances—a practice hindered in Suriname last year due to port restrictions. Ramlal proposed the area near the Waaggebouw at the Waterkant as the most logical location for a dedicated cruise pier, citing its deeper waters and proximity to the city center.