World leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, extended warm Diwali greetings as India celebrated the festival of lights with great enthusiasm and devotion on Monday.
In his message, Trump described Diwali as the “victory of light over darkness” and extended his best wishes to those celebrating in the United States and around the world.
“Today, I send my best wishes to every American celebrating Diwali – the ‘Festival of Lights,’” Trump said in a statement released by the White House. “For many Americans, Diwali is a timeless reminder of light’s victory over darkness. It is also a time to bring families and friends together to celebrate community, draw strength from hope, and embrace a lasting spirit of renewal. As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good will always triumph over evil. To every American celebrating Diwali, may this observance bring abiding serenity, prosperity, hope, and peace.”
Meanwhile, FBI Director Kash Patel also extended greetings on X, “Happy Diwali – celebrating the Festival of Lights around the world, as good triumphs over evil.”
The Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. posted, “On the occasion of Diwali, wishing everybody health, happiness, and prosperity.”
Sergio Gor, Special Envoy to the US President, attended Diwali celebrations at India House alongside India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra.
Sharing photos from the event, Ambassador Kwatra wrote, “Pleasure to host Ambassador and Special Envoy to the President Sergio Gor yesterday at India House for Diwali celebrations before his visit to India.”
India’s close ally Israel also joined in the celebrations. PM Benjamin Netanyahu sent Diwali wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India, emphasizing the enduring friendship between the two nations.
“Wishing my friend Narendra Modi and the people of India a very Happy Diwali! May the Festival of Lights bring hope, peace, and prosperity to your great nation. Israel and India stand together – partners in innovation, friendship, defence, and a brighter future,” Netanyahu said in a post from the Israel Prime Minister’s Office on X.
The State of Israel’s official account also shared warm greetings, saying, “As millions across India light their diyas to celebrate the victory of light over darkness, Israel extends warm wishes for peace, renewal, and hope. May the lights of Diwali shine both on homes and on hearts. From Jerusalem to Delhi and far beyond, may this festival of lights inspire us all to keep faith in a brighter tomorrow.”
The Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomats from the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi also joined in the celebrations.
Sara Yanovsky, Political Affairs Advisor at the embassy, said, “Wishing you a happy and meaningful Diwali. May the festival of lights bring joy and peace to you and your loved ones.”
Israeli diplomats even went shopping for diyas and festive decorations.
In a cheerful post, the embassy said, “This Diwali, our diplomats went diya and décor shopping! May our homes be filled with love and light, today and every day!”
Guy Nir, Spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in India, said, “Happy Diwali to all my Indian friends! May this Festival of Lights bring joy and prosperity to you all. Stepped out with my colleague Hadas Bakst to soak in the festive vibes and grab some Diwali decorations for our homes!”
Hadas Bakst, a diplomat at the Israel Foreign Ministry, added, “Happy Diwali! May the light of the diya shine on the strong friendship between India and Israel. Wishing you peace and prosperity!”
Reuven Azar, Israel’s Ambassador to India, conveyed his greetings through a video message, saying,
“Wishing all my Indian friends a joyful Diwali! May this special occasion illuminate your lives with good health and happiness. At this time, we also rejoice in the return of hostages and their heartfelt reunions with loved ones.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also extended Diwali greetings, writing on X, “Tonight, families and communities across Canada will light diyas and celebrate the triumph of light over darkness – of good over evil. Wishing everyone celebrating Diwali a joyful Festival of Lights.”
From the Gulf region, UAE Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Alshaali conveyed his greetings and shared glimpses of the embassy’s celebrations.
“Diwali has been part of my journey in India from the very start, and as I celebrate my fourth one here, its warmth feels more special than ever. Wishing everyone happiness and prosperity,” he said on X.
In a post on X, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “Wishing Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across Britain a joyful and peaceful Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. Earlier this month I lit a diya in Mumbai as a symbol of devotion, joy, and renewed bonds. As we celebrate this Festival of Lights, let’s keep building a Britain where everyone can look ahead with hope.”
Starmer’s Office shared snippets of the celebration.
“Wishing everyone in the UK and around the world a very happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas!”
The British High Commission in India celebrated Diwali in their premises.
In a post on X, the High Commission said, “We’re ringing in Diwali at the British High Commission in India with our families and friends and lots of extra reasons to celebrate this year. It’s been a fantastic year for the UK-India partnership already.”
“A very Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating in India, the UK, and around the world,” it added.
The British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata shared visuals of their celebration in their premises.
In a post on X, the Deputy High Commission said, “We’re ringing in Diwali at British Deputy High Commission Kolkata with our staff and lots of extra reasons to celebrate this year. It’s been a fantastic year for the UK-India relationship already. Thanks to British Club for the delicious treat.”
The British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron shared her excitement of celebrating her second Diwali.
“So excited to be celebrating my second Diwali with my amazing team at The British High Commission in India. This year’s celebration is extra special – with the visit of Prime Minister Modi to the UK and Prime Minister Keir Starmer to India, the signing of the landmark trade deal, launch of Vision 2035 and so much more! I’d like to wish everyone who’s celebrating, an extremely Happy Diwali. May the year ahead be bright and full of joy for you and yours.”
The UK Royal Family also extended Diwali Greetings.
In a post on X, the Royal Family said, “Wishing a very happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights in the UK and around the world.”
(ANI)