
New Delhi [India], October 21 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed his gratitude to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his warm Diwali greetings and extended his best wishes on Netanyahu’s birthday.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Thank you, my dear friend, for your warm Diwali greetings. I also extend my heartiest wishes on your birthday. Wishing you good health and success. May India-Israel Strategic Partnership continue to flourish in the years to come.”
Earlier, Israeli PM Netanyahu had shared Diwali greetings, tweeting, “Wishing my friend @narendramodi & the people of India a very Happy #Diwali! May the Festival of Lights bring hope, peace & prosperity to your great nation. Israel & India stand together. Partners in innovation, friendship, defence and a brighter future.”
Diwali greetings have also come from world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, who extended his wishes to Americans celebrating the festival. In his statement, Trump said, “Today, I send my best wishes to every American celebrating Diwali—the ‘Festival of Lights.’ For many Americans, Diwali is a timeless reminder of light’s victory over darkness. It is also a time to bring families and friends together to celebrate community, draw strength from hope, and embrace a lasting spirit of renewal. As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good will always triumph over evil.”
Diwali, a five-day festival, begins with Dhanteras, when people buy jewellery or utensils and offer prayers. The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali, precedes the main Diwali day, devoted to worshipping Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity. The fourth day celebrates Govardhan Puja, and the festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, when sisters pray for the well-being of their brothers, who in turn give gifts to their sisters. (ANI)