Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Sunday extended his wishes to the Hindu community on the first day of nine-day festival Navratri amid tensions with India.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Canadian PM wrote, «Happy Navratri! I'm sending my warmest wishes to members of the Hindu community and all those who are celebrating this festival.»
An official press statement released by the Canadian PM said that over the next nine nights and 10 days, members of the Hindu community in Canada and around the world will gather to celebrate Navratri, reported ANI.
«Navratri is one of the most important and sacred festivals in the Hindu faith, commemorating the victory of the goddess Durga over the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura and the triumph of good over evil.
Often seen as a celebration of feminine energy, it is a time for friends and family to come together and honour century-old traditions with prayers, joyous performances, special meals, and fireworks,» reported ANI quoting the statement by PM Trudeau.
He also termed the festival as a chance to grab knowledge about the culture of Hindu communities and an occasion to recognise their contributions to Canada.
«For all Canadians, Navratri also offers an opportunity to learn more about the rich history and culture of Hindu communities and to recognize their invaluable contributions to Canada's social, cultural, and economic fabric.