12th Annual Diwali on Parliament Hill
(CHAKRA) On November 1st, 2012, Member of Parliament and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs invited various politicians, temples and organizations to the 12th National Diwali Celebrations on Parliament Hill.
Diwali is a major festival in India and around the world celebrated by Hindus and Sikhs. This year Diwali will be celebrated on November 13th around the world. It is also referred to as the ‘festival of lights’ and the celebration of good over evil.
An overflowing crowd of Hindus and Sikhs from all across the country joined the Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Deepak Obhrai to celebrate Diwali at the Government Conference Centre. Although this was the 12th Diwali celebration on Parliament Hill, it was the 7th by PM Harper. Multiple Hindu and Sikh temples and community organizations were invited and represented at the vibrant celebration. A group of Pundits (hindu priests) gave a brief prayers followed by speeches from various politicians and organizations. The evening ended with mingling, dinner and sweets. Deepak Obhrai stated “I am happy also to be joined by my colleagues from this esteemed House”, as dozens of dignitaries, ministers, senators and members of parliament were present. Some of the other MPs and Ministers present were Rathika Sitsabaiesan, John Baird (Minister of Foreign Affairs), Eve Adams, Jinny Jogindera Sims and Bal Gosal (Minister of State-Sport).
Deepak Obhrai closed the festival with the following words, “Diwali symbolizes victory of good over evil. May I wish you, Mr. Speaker, my colleagues and all Canadians a happy Diwali”.
On November 3rd PM Harper will travel to India where he will meet with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other ministers and officials from the Indian government.
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