Web Desk: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended Diwali greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and worldwide on Sunday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and minority rights.
In separate messages, the country’s leadership emphasised the importance of equality, tolerance and religious harmony, pledging to safeguard the dignity and constitutional rights of all citizens regardless of faith or ethnicity.
President Zardari described Diwali as a festival symbolising the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and hope over despair.
He said the occasion encouraged compassion, kindness and mutual understanding, reminding people of their responsibility to support one another.
“Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens,” Zardari said, highlighting the Hindu community’s contributions to education, healthcare, business, public service, social welfare and culture.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed his greetings to Hindu families, reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and religious freedoms of minority communities.
The leadership stressed the need to promote peaceful coexistence and ensure equal opportunities for citizens of all religious backgrounds.
Diwali, widely known as the festival of lights, celebrates the victory of good over evil. In Hindu tradition, it commemorates Lord Rama’s return after 14 years of exile.
The festival features prayers, illuminated homes, family gatherings and celebrations. Many devotees also worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
The messages highlighted the importance of religious diversity and national unity in Pakistan.
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