For the first time, Diwali puja (prayer) in Fiji will be aired at 3pm.

Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji national vice president, Vigyan Sharma said the reason for  shifting the time from the usual 5pm to 3pm was because of a request by us to the two radio stations, Radio Sargam and Radio Fiji Two.

“Diwali is celebrated on Amavasya, which is the new moon day that will start on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at 8.40pm, and ends on Sunday, November 15, at 5pm,” he said.

Mr Sharma said the only changes to timing was made on the radio programmes.

He said those who prayed after 5pm were most welcome to do so. He also said Sanatan Dharm would help poor people all over Fiji with food, sweets and other generous donations.

“This year, the Sanatan Dharm has allocated $16,000 to help the poor, and those disadvantaged due to COVID-19,” he said.

Mr Sharma said Fijians had been affected due to the pandemic and would not be able to celebrate Diwali in a big way.

“Santan Dharm wants to ensure that they can be assisted and celebrate like the others. We wish everyone to have a joyous Diwali and consider those who cannot celebrate it and share their love with them,” he said.

The much-awaited Hindu festival of lights Diwali is just around the corner, and people eagerly look forward to the festival which will be celebrated November 15.

Meanwhile, Hindus have already started their Diwali shopping. Anushika Prakash of Vuci Road, Nausori was spotted at the NewWorld Supermarket buying firecrackers for her family.

She was excited for Diwali and could not resist buying firecrackers for her siblings.

“I would like to wish everyone to enjoy this year’s Diwali and start with the shopping as the sales started and this will benefit those who are cost cutting during the pandemic,” she said.

 Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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