New Delhi [India], October 19 (ANI): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday extended his greetings to the nation on the eve of Diwali, describing the festival as a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.

In his message, Birla said Diwali is not just an occasion to light lamps, but a festival deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions.

'Heartiest greetings to all on the grand festival of lights, Deepawali. I also extend my best wishes for the upcoming festivals of Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj. The festival of Deepawali is the soul of our culture and traditions. It is not just an occasion to light lamps and celebrate, but also a message of the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair,' the Lok Sabha Speaker said in a statement.

Birla further added that Diwali serves as a reminder of the ideals set by Lord Shri Ram, and urged people to celebrate the festival by spreading light in the lives of others.

'Lord Shri Ram, by following the path of values, righteousness, and dharma, set ideals that inspire us to uphold truth, duty, and goodwill in our own lives. Diwali is not only a time to celebrate joy but also to share it with others. We should strive to spread light in the lives of those around us,' he added.

The Lok Sabha Speaker emphasised the importance of unity, mutual trust, and social harmony and also wished for the happiness and prosperity in the lives of people and hoped for their well-being.

In his message, Om Birla said, 'Let us take a pledge on this sacred festival to strengthen unity, brotherhood, mutual trust, and equality in our society. May our farmers and workers be empowered, our business community prosper, our youth be energetic and self-reliant, and our nation continue to move forward on the path of development.'

Wishing well-being and prosperity to all, he added, 'May Goddess Lakshmi fill your lives with happiness and prosperity, may Goddess Saraswati bless you with knowledge and wisdom, and may Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles and pave the way for well-being. Wishing you all a very Happy Deepawali. Jai Siyaram.'

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India and among Indian communities worldwide. Known as the 'festival of lights,' it symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Diwali also marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the Ramayana. During the festival, homes are cleaned and illuminated with oil lamps and lights.

Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Families exchange sweets and gifts, wear new clothes, and burst firecrackers as part of the celebrations.

This year, Diwali will be celebrated on the intervening night of October 20 and 21. (ANI)