Here is Nick Clegg’s message for Diwali. The full transcript is below for those who have difficulty with hearing.
Saal Mubarak. This is the time of year when the lights of Diwali burn brightest, bringing joy to communities across the world. Important to Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, Diwali means different things to different people. Yet the core values it embodies – kindness, compassion and the enduring power of knowledge to banish ignorance and fear – matter to all of us, regardless of our faith or background.
In Britain, our pride in holding some of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India is a constant reminder of the diversity, generosity and openness that makes our country great. So whether you are in Leicester or New Delhi, marking the return of Lord Rama from exile, attainment of moksha by Mahavira or the Bandi Chhor Divas – this is a chance for all of us to come together, learn from each other and have fun, enjoying the lights and joyous music of Diwali.
So, I want to wish every one joining their family and friends for food, prayers and fireworks over the next five days a very happy and peaceful New Year.
Diwali Mubarak
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2 Comments
Very nice. People criticise Nick for saying whatever he thinks it might take to garner votes, and for being not always being the most principled of leaders, but sometimes he really hits the spot.
And one cannot argue with the sentiments. It is a matter of great pride that we have the biggest Diwali celebrations outside India. Why stop there though? We should aim for the biggest Rastafarian celebrations outside Jamaica too. And the biggest Jedi Religious jamborees outside Hollywood.
‘And the biggest Jedi Religious jamborees outside Hollywood.’
Can Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism be put on the same footing as Jedi, the former three being movements and traditions organically developed and lived out by individuals and families and monastic communities over thousands of years in India, China, Tibet and in the diaspora – and devotees of a film who call themselves Jedi – some seriously, many for a laugh.
Is a fan the same as a disciple?
I don’t dispute for a moment the religious and spiritual values at the heart of Star Wars and the concept of the Jedi knights – it taps into a deep religious sentiment and may well lead a few into exploring spiritual ideas more seriously. This is a good thing.
But to equate the issues and the characters explored in Star Wars with ancient religious movements, is stretching credulity.
Happy Diwali