It is my great pleasure to send warm greetings Australians celebrating the traditional Indian festival of Diwali, or Deepavali. From its beginnings as a Hindu festival of light, Diwali is now celebrated across the world by communities of Indian ancestry, shared by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs.
The central message of the triumph of light over darkness is one that continues resonates with people around the world, and I am delighted that it has become an essential part of our state’s multicultural calendar.
The lighting of the Sydney Opera House sails signifies that Diwali has now become a mainstream festival, one that can be enjoyed by families of all backgrounds.
I wish everyone celebrating Diwali a happy and joyful festival.
John Ajaka MLC
Minister for Multiculturalism
