Tony Blair Faith Foundation

The variety of ways which this festival is celebrated enables us to encounter some powerful lessons about our common humanity, and our relationship with the world around us. The celebration of Lakshmi Puja reminds us of the importance of prosperity, and how we can use our wealth for the benefit of all. The retellings of the Ramayana remind us of  the universal pursuit of justice, and of the need to struggle against evil in the world, while as the Diva Lamps are lit, it reminds us of the potential for light to prevail over darkness; for only a little flame will hold back a vast expanse of darkness. But these desirable ends need continually to be worked at by members of all communities if they are to be achieved. if we are to ensure that those suffering from evil and wrong doing can be given justice, that those plunged into disease are healed and that those mired in ignorance can be given the means to escape it.

This festival should be a call to all of us across the faiths to redouble our efforts, to continue to work for these great and noble goals.

Best wishes

The Tony Blair Faith Foundation