TORONTO — Today, Premier Doug Ford issued the following statement to mark the Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas holidays: “Starting today, many Ontarians will be celebrating Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. This five-day festival, celebrated by people of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain faiths around the world, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Today also marks Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating the day the sixth Guru of the Sikh faith, Guru Hargobind, was released from prison and led the release of 52 innocent prisoners without any signs of war or battle. The holiday honours the memory of the Guru’s contribution to the liberation and celebrates freedom and the fight against injustice. For Ontario’s vibrant South Asian communities, these holidays are a special time for reflection and renewal, and an opportunity to gather with family and friends for festive celebrations, prayers and to share gifts, meals and sweets. On behalf of the government of Ontario, I wish all those celebrating a happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas. As we head into the darker months of the year, may these festivals fill your homes with peace and happiness.” |