Happy Diwali: Christians join Hindus seeking unity and peace

While celebrations of Diwali, the festival of lights, kicked off on Friday throughout the country, Christians joined and greeted the Hindus seeking unity and peace.

The Indian President, Prime Minister and Vice President have also greeted the people on the occasion.

In her message, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil has said: “On the joyous occasion of Diwali, I convey my warm greetings and good wishes to the nation.”

"Diwali, the festival of lights is a time for celebration when family and friends come together. Let this festival of lights inspire us to help those as yet untouched by the light of education, heath and prosperity. May this Diwali bring happiness and joy to everyone," the President said.

Even the Vatican sent a message urging cooperation between Christians and Hindus in anticipation of their celebration of Diwali today.

"Sensitive to your religious feelings and respectful of your ancient religious tradition," the cardinal writes, "I sincerely hope that your search for the Divine, symbolized through the celebration of Diwali, will help you to overcome darkness with light, untruth with truth, and evil with goodness."

Joining the celebrations Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said: “The festival of lights, Diwali or Deepavali, is a festival which is a harbinger of joy, happiness and prosperity”.

"May this Diwali bring peace and prosperity to the people of our nation, to our neighbours and the world at large,” Dr Singh said.

Today millions of Hindus around the world will celebrate Diwali, the annual festival of lights. The day begins with families and friends exchanging food parcels filled with traditional sweets and savouries.