“The power of a single act of kindness” – Pres. Ali in Maha Shivratri message

Message by His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana on the occasion of Maha Shivratri 2026

I extend greetings to all, but especially our Hindu brothers and sisters, as we celebrate the auspicious festival of Maha Shivratri. This Great Night of Shiva descends upon us like a curtain of stars drawn across the heavens. In its stillness, we hear the whisper of eternity.

Maha Shivratri calls devotees to reverence and deep introspection. It invites each soul to bow gently before the Infinite and to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, the compassionate transformer, who guides humanity along the path toward liberation and enlightenment.

For Hindus, Lord Shiva is the bearer of the trident and stands as guardian of creation, preservation, and dissolution. In the silent rhythm of this night, we remember the cosmic dance through which life is born, sustained, and renewed. We glimpse the truth that all things rise and fall, and rise again, under the will of the Creator.

Maha Shivratri reminds us that the true authority over life and death belongs not to human hands, but to the Divine Source from whom all power flows. In humility, we acknowledge that our strength is but a flicker before the boundless flame of divine omnipotence.

Through fasting, prayer, meditation, and the chanting of sacred mantras, devotees purify the heart and steady the mind. In temples, offerings are laid as symbols of love and surrender. These rituals constitute sacred threads binding the human spirit to the Eternal.

Yet beyond the religious practices lie responsibility. Lord Shiva teaches detachment from excess and devotion to righteousness. In a world where abundance and want dwell side by side, this festival reminds us to share our bread, our kindness, our hope. Even the smallest act of generosity can ripple outward, touching unseen shores.

A single act of kindness outlives the hand that offered it. It moves quietly through the human heart, awakening gratitude, strengthening compassion, and inspiring others to act with the same generosity.

It is in this quiet multiplication of goodness that faith finds its truest expression. When compassion moves from intention to action, it becomes the light that guides a people forward together.

May the spirit of sharing take root within us and become the very light by which we walk together as one people, bound by love. May the wisdom and grace of Lord Shiva illumine our hearts, so that this love may reign supreme in our beautiful land.

Happy Maha Shivratri!