DEEPAVALI has always meant something profoundly important to me. It is not simply a celebration of light over darkness. It is a reminder that no matter how powerful the darkness may seem, it can never extinguish the light of goodness, courage and truth.
But light does not triumph simply because we wish it to. It triumphs because good people refuse to surrender. Because we choose integrity over convenience, compassion over hatred, and principle over personal gain. Because even when the temptation is greatest, we refuse to sell our souls.
Life will test us. People will disappoint us. Injustice will sometimes appear to win. But I have always believed that darkness can only prevail when good people stop being good. And that is a choice we must never make.
Deepavali is therefore not just a Hindu celebration. Its message belongs to all humanity, regardless of faith, race or belief. For the light we celebrate is the light that exists within every one of us.
So this Deepavali, let us resolve not merely to light lamps in our homes, but to keep the lamps of kindness, courage, hope and humanity burning brightly in our hearts.
For darkness is never defeated by more darkness. Only light can do that.
From Winy, Petra. Tara, Wilfred, Gleb and I wish every one of you, whatever your faith, a blessed and joyous Deepavali.
May your light never dim. And may you always have the courage to let it shine.
Datuk Dr Vinod Sekhar is the chairman of The Vibes and The Petra Group
