The Member of Parliament for Chipping Barnet Theresa Villiers has wished her Sikh, Hindu and Jain constituents a Happy Diwali as celebrations are due to begin on Monday 24th October.
The annual festival of Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is marked by lighting candles and letting off fireworks. It is also known as Deepavali, from the Sanskrit words for a row of lamps, lighting the way home.
Theresa said “I would like to send my best wishes to all everyone in my constituency who is celebrating Diwali. The values of the special festival have a meaning for all of us, whatever our faith or cultural background. As well as celebrating the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, the theme of homecoming is central to this important festival.
I have been taking part in Diwali celebrations for many years. I always feel honoured to be involved in these very special events, alongside many friends and constituents.
This is also a great time of the year to recognise the hugely valuable role played by the British Indian community in the UK. They are an outstanding success story and play an important part in our economy, our civic life, and our public services.”
Theresa is undertaking a number of events and activities for the Diwali season. These include the Diwali celebrations hosted in Parliament by the Hindu Forum of Britain, presided over by Bob Blackman MP and HfB President, Trupti Patel.