Obama extends Diwali greetings, looking forward to India visit

WASHINGTON - US President Barack Obama Thursday extended greetings on the occasion of Diwali, and said he looks forward to visiting India in the next few days.

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 religion celebrate the triumph of good over evil, Obama said in a message released by the White House.

He reminded that he had lighted a ‘diya (lamp)’ last year in the White House to mark the holiday. This lamp symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance, said Obama.

He added that Diwali was also a time for reflection that there were people less unfortunate. This holiday reminds us all that we should commit ourselves to helping those in need.

Referring to his visit to India this weekend, Obama added, To those celebrating Diwali in India, I look forward to visiting you over the next few days.

He then ended his message with his wishes. 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, said Obama.