Canadian PM Justin Trudeau visits temple, gurdwara on Diwali

In a first-of-its-kind event, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited a Hindu temple and a gurdwara in Ottawa to celebrate Diwali with the Indo-Canadian community, which turned out in huge numbers to greet him.

“Member of Parliament from Ottawa Chandra Arya welcomed Trudeau on his arrival at the temple along with the temple president. High commissioner Vishnu Prakash congratulated the Prime Minister on his election, observing that he was honouring 1.2 billion Indians and the large Indo-Canadian community by celebrating Diwali with them,” the High Commission of India in Ottawa said in a statement.

The Prime Minister attended the puja at the temple and the Gurbani recital at the gurdwara before addressing the congregation at both places.

He said Diwali had evolved into a global celebration and was not just an Indian festival. “Today (Wednesday), I join Canada’s Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities in recognising the occasions of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas. Families and friends take this occasion to reflect on the triumph of good over evil,” Trudeau said in a written statement.

“On behalf of the government of Canada, Sophie (his wife) and I wish a very happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas to all those observing these holidays with their family and loved ones,” Trudeau said. (REUTERS)

The Prime Minister said Diwali highlighted the values of respect and inclusion, and the commitment to freedom and equality shared between the nations, adding that it was a reminder that Canada was a nation made stronger not in spite of their differences but because of them.

“On behalf of the government of Canada, Sophie (his wife) and I wish a very happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Diwas to all those observing these holidays with their family and loved ones,” Trudeau said.

The Canadian Prime Minister mingled with members of the community, obliging scores of them with selfies and pictures and spent over 45 minutes each at both venues.