Diwali: A Message of Love, Sharing, and Hope for All - Arvin Boolell: "May the Light Illuminate the Heart of Every Mauritian"

Diwali, a message of love, sharing, and hope for all - Arvin Boolell: "May the light illuminate the heart of every Mauritian".

On every Diwali, Arvin Boolell reconnects with the flame of his childhood, which remains untouched by political life. For him, this festival transcends religion: it symbolizes the victory of good, truth, and light, bringing Mauritians together in peace and sharing.

"May the light illuminate the heart of every Mauritian," Arvin Boolell states with a voice filled with emotion. These words resonate as a sincere wish, enriched by childhood memories and deeply rooted values.

In the heart of Port-Louis, at Saint-François Xavier Street, the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Fisheries, and Blue Economy grew up surrounded by cousins, neighbors, and friends. Every year, during Diwali, the family home transformed into a true haven of joy and brotherhood. The aromas of sweets, the fragrance of ghee and flowers filled the courtyard. Laughter echoed, and children eagerly awaited the lighting of the first clay lamps.

"I remember the rows of diyas my mother would light, one by one, with such care," he recalls nostalgically. He adds, "Diwali was a festival of the heart. There was no distinction between different Mauritian communities. Everyone came to share a sweet, to light a lamp. That was Mauritius."

In the bustling alley, children set off firecrackers, families exchanged sweets, and as night fell, strolls through the capital revealed a magical spectacle. Thousands of lamps shimmered on porches, lighting up faces, streets, and souls.

Among all the sweets prepared for the festival, the sweet potato cake holds a special place in Arvin Boolell's heart. "It's my favorite, and it always will be," he confides with a smile. Back then, each household prepared it in large quantities, with recipes passed down through generations. Even today, he never misses an opportunity to taste some made by his loved ones or offered by families in his constituency.

The Belle-Rose/Quatre Bornes MP indeed receives dozens of invitations every Diwali for ceremonies, sweet sharing, and prayers. "I am deeply touched by this affection. It is a moment when I feel close to the people, when I realize the beauty of Mauritian togetherness," he emphasizes.

In his constituency, as in many other parts of the country, this festival has become a moment of national communion. Families of all faiths open their doors, exchange wishes, sweets, and smiles. Arvin Boolell ensures he honors these invitations, not as a politician, but as a Mauritian among others.

This year again, he aims to celebrate Diwali with family, in simplicity and tenderness. On Monday, after attending various ceremonies in his constituency, he will spend the afternoon with his two grandchildren. "Watching them run around the yard with lamps in their hands takes me back to my own past," he shares emotionally. "Diwali is primarily for them, to pass on the values of light, sharing, and kindness," he adds.

Amidst laughter and moments of reflection, the day ends in the serenity of a family prayer. In the quiet of the evening, the politician reflects on those facing challenges. "In my prayer, I always think of those who suffer, those battling illnesses, those living in solitude or insecurity. Diwali should remind us that light always triumphs over darkness," he says.

For Arvin Boolell, Diwali goes beyond rituals: it is a state of mind, a philosophy of life. "The light doesn't just shine in the lamps, but especially in the heart of man," he says wisely. In a country sometimes fraught with divisions and tensions, he hopes this festival serves as a reminder that Mauritius's strength lies in its unity.

"We must reignite the flame of empathy, kindness, and solidarity. Diwali teaches us that every gesture, no matter how small, can illuminate someone's life," he points out.

This message is reflected in his public commitment. For decades, he has remained true to his image as a politician close to the people, one who listens, walks among them, stops to shake a hand, or exchange a kind word. "I deeply believe that helping others without expecting anything in return is the most beautiful form of service," he confides.

Throughout his political journey, Arvin Boolell has consistently distinguished himself by his steadfastness, restraint, and humanity. Behind the parliamentarian's suit lies a sensitive man, moved by the suffering of others, attentive to even the slightest injustice. Those close to him describe him as a discreet man, yet a great listener, always ready to offer a word of encouragement or concrete assistance.

"Putting a smile on the faces of those we meet is already a way to change the world," he often repeats. This motto guides his life as much as his career. Whether it is a simple visit to a grieving family or a gesture towards a citizen in need, he acts without ostentation, true to the upbringing he received in his Port-Louis home.

To him, the light of Diwali does not belong to a single religion but to all humanity. It symbolizes the hope that is reborn, the compassion that heals, the faith in better tomorrows. "In a world where violence, conflicts, and suffering multiply, we need inner light more than ever," he states.

This year again, he wishes that Diwali brings peace to every home, prosperity to every family, and serenity to every heart: "May the light of good triumph over evil, may truth prevail over hatred, and may every Mauritian rediscover that flame of unity and love that has always been our strength."

For Arvin Boolell, the true Diwali is not only the one celebrated with lamps and sweets but the one lived in kindness and solidarity. "Lighting a lamp is symbolic. But illuminating someone's heart is spiritual. And that is the true meaning of Diwali," he notes.

Between childhood memories, human values, and political commitment, Arvin Boolell embodies that generation of Mauritians who see in every festival an opportunity to bring hearts closer. And this year again, in the glow of the diyas, he will make the same wish: "May the light of Diwali continue to illuminate the path of Mauritius, in unity, peace, and love."