Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly, and Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc, takes part in a press conference about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's investigation into "violent criminal activity in Canada with connections to India",on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada October 14, 2024. REUTERS/Blair Gable/File Photo / Reuters

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Premier of Ontario Doug Ford greeted members of the Indo-Canadian community on the sacred occasion of Bandi Chhor Divas and  Diwali, the festival of lights.

Greetings on Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali were also exchanged on the floor of the House of Commons, as some members representing the Indian Diaspora made special mention of the great Indian festival during the Member's session.

A series of functions were held all over the country as members of the strong Indo-Canadian community organised special Diwali melas. In addition to traditional festivities, cultural programmes highlighting Indian folklore—dances and music—were also the star attractions for the festival revellers. 

The City of Brampton, which has the largest population of Indian Diaspora in Canada, will hold a special Mela on Diwali Day (November 1). This free, family-friendly event will feature main-stage performances by both local and international artists, including opener Gurpreet Maan, followed by Punjabi artists G. Sidhu, Chani Nattan and Inderpal Moga. The event will also showcase energetic performances from the Nachdi Jawani Bhangra Team, Taaj Entertainment and DJ Prince. Participants in the mela would be free to indulge in diverse culinary delights and enjoy the City’s largest fireworks show. 

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau,  while greeting people of Indian origin, said in a message: “Today, we join millions of people in Canada and around the world to celebrate Diwali. 

“Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil, of knowledge over ignorance. On this day, families will gather to pray at mandirs, exchange gifts, and participate in festivities across the country. Homes will be lit with candles and diyas. Fireworks will embrace the sky. This is a holiday of hope, and the bright lights of Diwali encourage us all to defeat darkness and find purpose.

“Diwali in Canada would not be possible without our incredible Indo-Canadian community. Indo-Canadians represent the best of Canada, as artists and entrepreneurs, doctors and teachers, and leaders in business, community, and culture. On Diwali, we celebrate them and the light they carry across Canada’s communities.

“Diwali is especially important to Hindu Canadians – one of Canada’s largest and most diverse diasporas. In November, as we mark Hindu Heritage Month in Canada, let us join the community and celebrate. We will always stand with Hindu Canadians to ensure their safety and security so they can freely and proudly practise their religion.

“On behalf of all Canadians, I wish everyone celebrating a very happy Diwali. May the Festival of Lights bring us joy, happiness, and prosperity.”

In the House of Commons, among various members, Maninder Singh Sidhu of the ruling Liberal party, highlighted the significance of the festival while greeting all members of the Indian Diaspora.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated to mark the Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas holidays, saying

“Today, many Ontarians of the Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist and Jain faiths will gather to celebrate Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. While regional and faith-based practices vary, this five-day festival celebrates the universal triumph of good over darkness.

“Today also commemorates Bandi Chhor Divas. Celebrated by Sikh communities, it honours Guru Hargobind’s release from unjust imprisonment and his peaceful liberation of 52 innocent prisoners. It is a time to reflect on our freedoms and the power of selfless actions.

“Both holidays, rich in history and tradition, bring families and communities together as Diya lamps are lit, fireworks light up the sky and meals are shared. To all those celebrating, may this time bring light, joy and warmth to your homes.

“On behalf of the government of Ontario, I wish you all a happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas!”, he said.

Special samagams, kirtan darbars and bhandaras have been planned at various places of worship, including Sikh gurdwaras and Hindu temples throughout the country. Arrangements have been made for members of the Indo-Canadian community to organise and watch special fireworks as part of the celebrations.