Diwali celebrations the perfect example of unity in diversity

Diwali celebrations at the Osuthu Royal Palace in KwaNongoma last weekend served as a perfect example of unity in diversity as King of the AmaNdebele Kingdom, King Makhosonke Mabhena, attended the event hosted by the President of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation, Prof Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu and His Majesty, King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekhuZulu.

Marking the sixth annual event, festivities were held in accordance with Covid-19 regulations. It celebrating the festival of lights at an auspicious gathering and also marked the 160th anniversary of the arrival of indentured labourers to SA.

In his address, His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekhuZulu said Diwali also serves as a reminder that we must each do our part to achieve victory by dedicating ourselves to the service of others.

‘If we affirm our commitments to one another and strive to lift each other up, then together we will continue moving closer to that brighter future we all seek.

‘During Diwali there is an air of freedom, festivity and friendliness everywhere. In our country we speak of social cohesion, but we need practical implementation of social cohesion, and this festival brings about unity. It instils charity in the hearts of people.’

‘The concept of unity in diversity must be practiced by all communities. ‘Our peace must be based on the understanding of God. Remember that God is love and love is God, and where love is, there God is. Our multi-cultural and multi-religious community must flourish and aim towards unity as one nation,’ said King Zwelithini.

‘Living in a diverse rainbow nation with many religions, cultures and rituals, it is imperative that we learn to respect others and their beliefs. We must consider the world as our home and all people in it as our brothers and sisters.

‘We have many challenges in society. No country can regard itself as having triumphed over darkness if her people are hungry. We need to do everything in our power to ensure food security in our land.’

Joining in this year’s event, His Majesty King Makhosonke Mabhena, King of the Amandebele nation, said it was breathtaking to note and experience this wonderful work of His Majesty, King Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu and the Sivananda World Peace Foundation to promote peace, working together and in instilling the spirit of charity in the hearts of the people.

‘What delights me more about this festival is to note that this year’s celebration will also highlight the 160 years since the arrival of indentured labourers from India to the shores of KwaZulu-Natal. This festival provide all of us with an opportunity to learn more about the hardships and struggles faced by the indentured labourers during those trying times.

‘History teaches us that learning more about the people makes it easier for us to have a better understanding and be able cohabit better than the people who don’t know each other,’ King Mabhena said.

Sivananda World Peace Foundation founder, Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, paid respects to King Zwelithini and said His Majesty had been the most consistent voice and campaigner for peace and unity among his people.

‘It is largely due to his ceaseless commitment to peace that relative stability and peace has come to the province of KwaZulu-Natal. I know that nothing troubles His Majesty more than strife among his people. I urge all, more especially in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, to give His Majesty the gift he will cherish for the rest of his life – the gift of enduring peace,’ said Ramlutchman.