Nov 6: Diwali ... and the Melbourne Cup!

For Hong Kong's Indian and Nepalese communities, tomorrow is the Festival of Diwali (pronounced "Divali") which is one of the most important festivals in the world.

"Diwali" means "row of lamps", oil lamps being used to signify the triumph of good over evil, and to signify the light of knowledge dispelling the darkness of ignorance. Awareness of this Inner Light produces compassion and an awareness of the oneness of all things. I wish everyone a Happy Diwali!

Today, the first Tuesday of November, is Melbourne Cup Day. The Melbourne Cup is one of the world's most famous horse races. It will be run at noon Hong Kong time. If around noon today you try to contact the kind staff of the Australian Consulate-General or other Australian centers, you might have a little bit of trouble finding people!