On the occasion of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, The Green Party of Canada today recognizes the many contributions of Canada’s Hindu and Jain communities to our country’s vibrant cultural mosaic.
Celebrated every year between mid-October and mid-November, Diwali is a 5-day celebration commemorating the return of Lord Rama from his 14-year-long exile, and is one of the most important festivals of the Hindu year. On this same date, Jains observe Diwali to mark the attainment of moksha or nirvana by Mahavira in 527 BCE.
A contraction of "Deepavali," Sanskrit for “row of lamps”, Diwali is traditionally celebrated with the lighting of small clay lamps filled with oil to symbolize the triumph of good over evil.
Canada is now home to close to 400,000 Hindus, living primarily in Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia. Hindus first came to Canada more than 100 years ago and continue to immigrate to this country, especially from India and Sri Lanka. Adherents of Jainism, though fewer in number, have also been in Canada since the late 19th century and constitute an integral part of our country’s spiritual tapestry.
The Green Party extends warm wishes to Canada’s Jain and Hindu communities for a joyous festival of lights.
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Contact Information:
Nicholas Gall
Communications Officer
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
nicholas.gall@greenparty.ca