Celebrating the Festival of Lights: Diwali messages from pharmacy leaders

As the country celebrates Diwali, symbolising the victory of good over evil and of light over darkness, Pharmacy Business asked pharmacy leaders to share their Diwali messages….

Observed by people of various faiths, Diwali symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Known as a festival of lights, Diwali is also closely associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and Ganesha, the god of wisdom and remover of obstacles.

The festival dates are based on the Hindu lunar calendar, typically falling in late October or early November. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Thursday, October 31.

As the country celebrates Diwali, Pharmacy Business asked pharmacy leaders to share their Diwali messages….

Embrace the importance of community

“Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, the festival of light, freedom and hope, is an opportunity to come together to reflect on the year and celebrate our achievements with family, friends and colleagues. During this time we should embrace the importance of community, and recognise the contributions pharmacists and their teams make to their local communities.

On behalf of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, we want to wish everyone celebrating a happy and peaceful Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas full of light and prosperity -- Professor Claire Anderson, President, Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Professor Claire Anderson, President, Royal Pharmaceutical Society

Lighting the way together

As we celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the essential role pharmacy colleagues across the landscape play in lighting the way for patient care and wellbeing. Diwali represents the triumph of light over darkness, and in much the same way, pharmacy professionals and their teams offer support, care, and hope to those in need.

In our diverse healthcare landscape, we must also celebrate unity in diversity. Whether it’s working across cultures or collaborating across disciplines, our shared commitment and dedication to improving health outcomes unites us. By embracing the strength that comes from our differences, we continue to build a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system for all.

Wishing all pharmacy teams a prosperous, peaceful, and joyful Diwali!

From Professor Mahendra G Patel OBE, Director, Centre for Research Equity, University of Oxford

Professor Mahendra G Patel

It’s time to reflect, renew and celebrate

“As the festival of Diwali approaches, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to you and your families. This occasion is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration.

Diwali reminds us of the importance of community and the power of unity. In these times, as we continue to navigate the challenges of our industry, let us draw inspiration from the spirit of Diwali to work together and support one another.

At Numark, we value the diversity and strength of our members, and we are committed to helping you in every way possible. As we celebrate this festival of lights, may it bring you peace, prosperity, and continued growth for your business.”

Wishing you and yours a bright and joyous Diwali!

From Harry McQuillan, Chairman of Numark

Harry McQuillan

Celebrate the joy of helping others

"Diwali has been a part of my life for over 50 years, and for me, it symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It’s a time to reflect on the past year, be thankful for what we have, and focus on improving ourselves.

While we face challenges in community pharmacy, we must also celebrate the positives. We’ve been able to continue working through tough times, such as during the pandemic, when our role became even more critical. For me, it was a blessing to be able to work and support patients through such times. Diwali is also a time to reconnect with family and take a moment to recognise the joy and fulfilment that comes from helping others — from sourcing hard-to-find medications to providing care that helps patients avoid long waits for GP appointments.

As we celebrate Diwali, I hope we continue to dedicate ourselves to making a positive difference both personally and within the pharmacy sector. After all, it's the time we give to our families, patients, and communities that truly matters.

I also hope the Government and the NHS recognise the dedication of community pharmacies. Despite long hours and sacrifices, we have stayed committed to serving our communities. I urge the new Government to provide meaningful support and a stronger deal for our sector not just in the coming year, but into 2025 and beyond. We deserve recognition and support for our unwavering commitment and contributions to public health”

-  Anil Sharma, Community Pharmacy England Committee Member and Regional Representative for East of England.

Anil Sharma

Unity in diversity is a powerful strength

“Diwali, the festival that symbolises new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, carries a message that resonates deeply this year. It serves as a reminder of the rich diversity that strengthens our communities and the importance of coming together to celebrate each other's traditions and cultures.

As millions of people light up their homes with an array of lights and colours and share precious moments with loved ones, we at Alliance Healthcare are inspired to also illuminate our community with positivity, understanding, and unity. We believe that diversity is a powerful strength that drives innovation and growth within our organisation.

I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to community pharmacists, who provide essential healthcare services day in and day out. Despite the challenges you often face, your compassion and dedication to creating healthier futures make a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals. For that, I am truly grateful.

To all those celebrating Diwali with their friends and loved ones, we hope the festival of lights is filled with love, kindness and togetherness. Alliance Healthcare couldn’t do what we do without the dedication of pharmacists, and our teams and I want to take the opportunity during this festive season to say thank you again and happy Diwali” - Marie Evans, Managing Director, Alliance Healthcare UK

Marie Evans

Let’s celebrate the diversity in pharmacy

“As Diwali lights up your homes and hearts, we send our warmest wishes to our pharmacy family celebrating with loved ones. This time of reflection and gratitude is especially meaningful after the challenges we've all faced in recent months. We take pride in the rich diversity within the pharmacy sector and hope this festival brings peace, joy, and brightens the world around us all.

As the profession's charity, we’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring the light of health and happiness continues to shine brightly for you and your family.”

Happy Diwali!

From the staff, trustees, and volunteers at Pharmacist Support

“Wishing lifelong happiness and light to all of our friends and colleagues celebrating Diwali’ From all of us at National Association Primary Care” – from National Association of Primary Care (NAPC).