High Commission of India, Ottawa
Press Release

Prime Minister Trudeau celebrates Diwali in Ottawa

1.  In a first, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited the Hindu Temple and GurdwaraSaheb, in Ottawa today, to celebrate Diwali with the Indo-Canadian community, which turned out in huge numbers to greet him.

2.  Member of Parliament from Ottawa Chandra Arya, welcomed PM Trudeau on arrival at the temple along with the temple President. High Commissioner Vishnu Prakash congratulated the Prime Minister on his election, observing that he was honouring 1.2 billion Indians and the large Indo-Canadian community by celebrating Diwali with them.

3.  PM Trudeau participated in the Puja at the temple and the Gurbani recital at the Gurdwara, before addressing the congregation at both places. He remarked that Diwali was now a global festival and not just an Indian celebration.

4.  Earlier in a written statement PM Trudeau said, 'Today, I join Canada's Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities in recognizing the occasion of Diwali and BandiChhor Divas. Tonight, families and friends take this occasion to reflect on the triumph of good over evil. Known as the Festival of Lights to many, Diwali is also a celebration of the power of higher knowledge and light to dispel ignorance.... Diwali highlights our shared values of respect and inclusion, and our commitment to freedom and equality. It is a reminder that Canada is a nation made stronger not in spite of our differences, but because of them. On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I wish a very happy Diwali and BandiChhor Divas to all those observing these holidays with their family and loved ones."

5.  The Canadian Prime Minister happily mingled with members of the community, obliging scores of them with selfies and pictures. He spent over forty-five minutes each at both venues.

Ottawa
11 Nov. 15