Modi extends Diwali greetings, pledges celebration with armed forces

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday released a video message extending his Diwali greetings to all Indians, emphasising the festival's deeper meaning as a symbol of the nation's resolve against darkness. "My heartiest greetings to all of you for Diwali. I wish for peace, prosperity and happiness for all of you in the coming days," Modi said in the message posted across his social media platforms.

Continuing a long-standing personal tradition, Modi stated he would celebrate Deepavali with the armed forces, as he has done in previous years. "I have been celebrating Diwali with the brave soldiers of the country every year. This time also, I will continue the tradition," the Prime Minister said, though he did not specify which military installation or post would host the celebration.

Modi highlighted the widespread illumination of lights across the country on the eve of Diwali, describing it as a reflection of India's collective determination to overcome adversity. He called upon the nation to celebrate the festival with great enthusiasm, underscoring the cultural and patriotic significance of Deepavali in the Indian calendar.