'Holiday of Hope’: Trudeau Extends Diwali Greetings to Canadian Hindus Amid Ongoing Rift with India

New Delhi: Amid spiraling diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Ottawa, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has extended Diwali greetings, describing the Hindu Canadians as the one of the "most diverse diasporas."

Highlighting the cultural significance of Diwali , Justin Trudeau, in a statement wrote, “Today, we join millions of people in Canada and around the world to celebrate Diwali. Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil, of knowledge over ignorance. On this day, families will gather to pray at mandirs, exchange gifts, and take part in festivities across the country. Homes will be lit with candles and diyas. Fireworks will embrace the sky. This is a holiday of hope, and the bright lights of Diwali encourage us all to defeat darkness and find purpose."

Notably, Trudeau has been facing a flak by his own party members who have demanded him to step down and not contest the next federal elections amid India-Canada ties hitting rock bottom over Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's Killing. In his statement, the Liberal party leader hailed the Indo-Canadian community and said that it represents "the best of Canada."

“Diwali in Canada would not be possible without our incredible Indo-Canadian community. Indo-Canadians represent the best of Canada – as artists and entrepreneurs, as doctors and teachers, as leaders in business, community, and culture. On Diwali, we celebrate them and the light they carry across Canada’s communities," the statement further read.

Trudeau, who has been accused by MEA of giving shelter to Khalistani terrorists and extremists, also vowed to ensure the safety of Hindu Canadians.

“Diwali is especially important to Hindu Canadians – one of Canada’s largest and most diverse diasporas. In November, as we mark Hindu Heritage Month in Canada, let us join the community and celebrate. We will always stand with Hindu Canadians to ensure their safety and security so they can freely and proudly practise their religion."

“On behalf of all Canadians, I wish everyone celebrating a very happy Diwali. May the Festival of Lights bring us joy, happiness, and prosperity,” the statement further read.