King Goodwill Zwelithini Praised for Diwali Unity

It was a day to remember as the heavens opened up in Nongoma on the Linduzulu Royal Palace and soaked the scorched African earth and the chants of the gopis reverberated throughout the Zulu Kingdom. The event was the brainchild of KwaZulu Natal philanthropist, humanitarian and businessman Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu.

The King, dressed in an immaculately tailored two-piece suit looked fitter than ever, as he stood in front of His subjects and spoke of social cohesion, reconciliation and love, "My dream, especially for the province of KwaZulu-Natal, is to see Zulus and Indians moving from tolerating each other to accepting each other. I speak from a full heart when I pray that staging of this beautiful event today may prove to be another step towards the end of mistrust between these two communities. I appeal to leaders and members of the two communities to pause, to stretch out their hand of forbearance and reconciliation. It is my earnest desire that true leaders from both communities work with me and KwaZulu-Natal government, as we work towards true social cohesion."

One could see the humbled reflection of Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu as he delivered his speech, "Today marks a special moment in the history of our province and our country at large, as we come together here at this Holy Ground, being the Royal Palace of His Majesty The King. Today is Historic for me because when I say " Isilo Samabandla Onke" means that His Majesty is the King of All of Us. This is a practical demonstration of our King to embrace us as his children and subjects of the Kingdom of KwaZulu Natal."

There was something magical and honest in this Diwali celebration as King Goodwill observed, "For Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists, lighting the lamp—the diya—is a chance to remember, even in the midst of darkness, that light will ultimately prevail. Knowledge will defeat ignorance, and compassion will triumph over despair. Diwali is also a reminder that we must each do our part to achieve that victory, by dedicating ourselves to service to 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 everyone forgets and forgives the wrongs done by others." Said King Goodwill.

"There is an air of freedom, festivity and friendliness everywhere. This festival brings about unity. It instils charity in the hearts of people. Deepavali is a great unifying force. Those with a keen inner spiritual ear will clearly hear the voice of the sages, 'O children of God, unite, and love all.' The holy vibrations produced by the greetings of love fill the atmosphere, and are powerful enough to bring about a change of heart in every man and woman in the world." Concluded His Majesty The King.

The celebrations were completed by a vegetarian feast, prepared and served by the Sivananda World Peace Foundation and its devotees. Diwali 2017 was a historical occasion, which will remain in the hearts of those privileged enough to attend the event.