The message: I am pleased to send this message of greetings to all Sri Lankan Hindus, as they join their fellow worshipers the world over in celebrating Maha Shivarathri.

This festival is of special significance as it is believed to be when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava or the cosmic dance of Shiva, that marks both primordial creation and preservation of the universe. The celebrations on this day are marked by fasting and night long vigils at temples, the lighting of lamps and making a special offering to Lord Shiva together with the chanting of prayers and hymns in his honour, by devotees.

The most visible aspect of this festival, the lighting of lamps, symbolises the constant efforts by humans to dispel the darkness of ignorance with the light of knowledge and understanding. It also signifies the search for unity and harmony among people that transcends all differences in society.

I wish all Sri Lankan Hindus the blessings of Maha Shivarathri to realise their hope for a better tomorrow.