President Obama greets people on Diwali

NEW DELHI - Ahead of his India visit, US President Barack Obama has greeted the people around the world on the auspicious occasion of Diwali.

“Tomorrow, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, here in America and around the world, will celebrate the holiday of Diwali - the festival of lights. This is a day when members of some of the world’s oldest religions celebrate the triumph of good over evil,” said Obama.

“Last year, I marked this holiday as many will this weekend - by lighting the Diya, or lamp. This lamp symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance,” he added in his Diwali message.

Obama in his message further said Diwali is a time for celebration, and also a time for reflection- “a time when we must remember that there are always others lessortunate then ourselves.”

“This holiday reminds us all that we should commit ourselves to helping those in need. For many, this is also a time to gather with family and to pray. To those celebrating Diwali in India,” said Obama.

“I look forward to visiting you over the next few days. And to all those, who will celebrate this joyous occasion on Friday, I wish you, your families and loved ones Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak,” he added. (ANI)