World leaders have extended warm Diwali greetings as India celebrated the festival of lights with great enthusiasm yesterday.
The White House issued a statement calling Diwali a victory of light over darkness. US President Donald Trump sent his best wishes to all Americans celebrating the festival, saying Diwali is a timeless reminder of hope, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil. He expressed hope that the observance brings serenity, prosperity, and peace to everyone.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel also extended his Diwali greetings.
The Indian Embassy in the United States wished everyone health, happiness, and prosperity on this special occasion. Special Envoy to the President Sergio Gor attended Diwali celebrations at India House alongside India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also extended his greetings on the festival.
UAE Ambassador to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, conveyed his best wishes, noting that Diwali has been an important part of his journey in India from the very beginning.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent Diwali wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India, emphasizing the strong bond between India and Israel.
In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer marked the occasion by recalling his recent visit to India, where he lit a diya in Mumbai as a symbol of devotion and renewed bonds. Posting on social media, Starmer wished Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs across Britain a joyful and peaceful Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. He added, “Let’s keep building a Britain where everyone can look ahead with hope.” Earlier this month, during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Starmer also extended Diwali greetings in Hindi.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs joined the global chorus of goodwill, wishing that “light always prevail” in its Diwali message.
Leaders from Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore have also extended warm Diwali greetings.
Across New Delhi, diplomatic missions from Finland, Israel, Austria, Brazil, Switzerland, and the European Union joined in the Diwali celebrations, extending festive greetings to the people of India.
Across India, people are celebrating Diwali, a five-day festival that began on Dhanteras on the 18th of this month. The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi, is also known as Chhoti Diwali or Small Diwali. The third day marks the main celebration. The fourth day is dedicated to Govardhan Puja, while the fifth day, Bhai Dooj, is when sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and perform the Tika ceremony, with brothers giving gifts in return.
