Diwali 2026: Zardari, Shehbaz hail Hindu community’s role in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have extended warm greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world on the occasion of Diwali, describing the country’s Hindu population as an integral part of its national life.

In their separate messages issued on Sunday, the president and prime minister conveyed heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to members of the Hindu community celebrating the festival of lights, highlighting their valuable contributions to Pakistan’s social, cultural and economic development.

President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasised that Pakistan’s Hindu community has played an important role in strengthening the country and remains an essential part of its national identity.

They acknowledged the community’s contributions across different fields and appreciated its role in promoting social harmony, cultural diversity and national progress.

The two leaders also stressed that Pakistan takes pride in its religious and cultural diversity, describing the country’s different traditions and beliefs as valuable assets that enrich society.

Their messages highlighted the importance of respecting religious differences and recognising the contributions of all communities to the country’s development.

Diwali, widely known as the festival of lights, is one of the most significant religious celebrations for Hindus. The festival symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, bringing families and communities together through prayers, celebrations, the lighting of traditional lamps and the exchange of greetings.

Across Pakistan, members of the Hindu community traditionally celebrate the occasion by decorating homes and temples, lighting oil lamps, offering prayers and sharing happiness with family and friends.

The presidential and prime ministerial messages also reflected the importance of interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence in a country where people from different religious backgrounds form part of the national fabric.

Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and provides constitutional protections for the rights of religious minorities.

The leaders’ Diwali greetings served as a recognition of the Hindu community’s longstanding presence and contributions to Pakistan, reinforcing the message that every community has a valuable role in shaping the country’s future.

Their messages extended the spirit of the festival beyond religious celebrations, emphasising unity, mutual respect and the importance of embracing diversity in national life.