Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended Diwali greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world, posting his message on the social media platform X on Sunday.

"Warm greetings to everyone celebrating Diwali across Pakistan and around the world. May the festival of lights bring peace, robust health, happiness and prosperity into your lives. Happy Diwali," the prime minister wrote.

Mr Sharif also appealed for continued inter-religious harmony in his message. First Lady Asifa Baloch added her own wishes on X, saying the glow of Diwali should illuminate every home with tranquillity, joy and economic well-being.

A message of equal rights

In a message published by the Prime Minister's Office, Mr Sharif said he wished to extend his heartiest greetings to the Hindu community across the country and abroad on the occasion of Diwali, and that the government was committed to the welfare of minorities and safeguarding their fundamental rights.

He also called on the Hindu community to continue making its valuable contributions to the prosperity of Pakistan.

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is marked by the lighting of lamps and candles, prayers and family celebrations. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, and is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the Hindu calendar.