Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended warm greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world on the auspicious occasion of Diwali 2025. In a heartfelt message posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, October 20, 2025, PM Sharif emphasized the festival’s universal message of peace, harmony, and equality. His message resonated deeply as he called for people of all faiths and backgrounds to live together peacefully, highlighting Diwali’s spirit as a beacon of light dispelling darkness and fostering compassion.
In his message, Shehbaz Sharif stated, “On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, I extend my heartfelt greetings to our Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world. As homes and hearts are illuminated with the light of Diwali, may this festival dispel darkness, foster harmony, and guide us all toward a future of peace, compassion, and shared prosperity.” He further underscored the symbolic significance of Diwali, describing it as a celebration that embodies the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair. This symbolism, he noted, should inspire collective efforts to overcome societal challenges such as intolerance and inequality.
PM Sharif’s message also carried a strong call for unity and inclusivity, urging everyone to work together to ensure that every citizen, regardless of their faith or background, has the opportunity to live in peace and contribute meaningfully to their society’s progress. This inclusive vision aligns with the broader values that Diwali represents, reinforcing a commitment to social harmony and mutual respect amidst diverse communities.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the Indian subcontinent and among Hindu communities worldwide. It is a vibrant five-day festival that marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The celebrations begin with the first day known as Dhanteras, which is considered highly auspicious for buying jewellery, utensils, or other valuable items. On this day, people also worship deities to seek blessings for health and prosperity.
The second day of Diwali is called Naraka Chaturdashi, popularly known as Chhoti Diwali or Small Diwali. It commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This day is marked with various rituals, including early morning oil baths, lighting lamps, and decorating homes to prepare for the main day of Diwali.
The third day is the main day of Diwali celebrations, often referred to simply as Diwali. On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Prayers and offerings are made to seek their blessings for a prosperous and joyous year ahead. Homes and public spaces are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, and fireworks, creating a festive and joyous atmosphere that brings families and communities together.
Following the main day, the fourth day is dedicated to Govardhan Puja. This ritual commemorates the legend of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains and floods. Devotees worship the hill and offer prayers for protection and well-being, celebrating the divine intervention that saved their ancestors.
The festival concludes on the fifth day with Bhai Dooj, a special occasion celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters perform the Tika ceremony, applying a symbolic mark on their brothers’ foreheads and praying for their long and happy lives. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters as a token of love and appreciation. Bhai Dooj serves as a reminder of the familial bonds and mutual care that are cherished in Indian culture.
Diwali’s widespread celebration is marked by its deep cultural and spiritual significance, as well as by joyous communal activities such as decorating homes, sharing sweets, exchanging gifts, and participating in prayers and rituals. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and the reaffirmation of values such as kindness, generosity, and the pursuit of a harmonious society.
This year, the significance of Diwali 2025 has been further highlighted by the messages of peace and unity from leaders across the region. Alongside PM Shehbaz Sharif’s greetings, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also noted for celebrating Diwali with navy personnel onboard the INS Vikrant, underscoring the festival’s importance as a unifying cultural event that transcends