Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, Diwali Puja, Pune, India, 1986

"Many such lamps came in this world but they were isolated. In some places, as you have seen, great saints were born. In this land of Maharashtra also, there were many saints. Isolated, these lamps were shining dimly in some corner of the world but even today, they are shining like a galaxy in the universe. But they were alone, there was no 'Deepavali' , they were alone and used to meet each other rarely. But today, we are 'Deepavali'. All of you are those lamps whom I am describing, those same beautiful lamps who are now enlightened and are enlightening many other lamps. Each lamp is enlightening a thousand others and this is the only way by which the darkness and ignorance of the universe can come to an end.

But we have to remember one thing – the oil with which we are burning is the oil of love, unconditional love, a love that does not expect anything in return. This love does not stick to anyone, does not have any desire, does not want any reciprocation and continuously keeps the lamp burning in a beautiful manner. The gracious beauty and elegance of such a lamp also reflects upon your lotus faces. These lamps shine through your eyes."