Diwali, the festival of lights, illuminated homes and hearts across the globe as world leaders extended their greetings and shared heartfelt messages of peace, hope, and unity. From Washington to London, Jerusalem to Islamabad, global figures celebrated the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, recognising Diwali’s universal message of togetherness.
Here’s what global leaders said as they joined millions in celebrating the spirit of Diwali 2025.
Donald Trump (United States)
US President Donald Trump sent his best wishes to people celebrating Diwali, calling it a timeless reminder of light’s victory over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. In his official message, he 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.”
He further added that Diwali serves as a unifying moment for millions worldwide. “As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good will always triumph over evil.” Trump highlighted how Diwali’s message of resilience, renewal, and optimism aligns with the values of freedom and faith cherished by the American people.
Keir Starmer (United Kingdom)
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended warm wishes to Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs across the United Kingdom on the occasion of Diwali. He reflected on his visit to India earlier this month, saying, “Earlier this month I lit a diya in Mumbai as a symbol of devotion, joy, and renewed bonds. As we celebrate this Festival of Lights, let’s keep building a Britain where everyone can look ahead with hope.”
Starmer noted that the spirit of Diwali — togetherness, compassion, and shared purpose — is vital in building stronger communities. His message resonated deeply with the large Indian diaspora in Britain, reaffirming the UK’s respect for multicultural harmony and shared values of peace and hope.
Benjamin Netanyahu (Israel)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent Diwali greetings to his “friend” Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to the people of India. “Wishing my friend Narendra Modi and the people of India a very Happy Diwali! May the Festival of Lights bring hope, peace and prosperity to your great nation,” Netanyahu wrote in his message shared on X.
He further added that India and Israel “stand together — partners in innovation, friendship, defence and a brighter future.” His greeting reflected the deepening ties between the two nations and acknowledged India’s growing role as a beacon of stability and innovation in global affairs.
Shehbaz Sharif (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and to Hindus worldwide. In a post on X, he said, “On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, I extend my heartfelt greetings to our Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world. As homes and hearts are illuminated with the light of Diwali, may this festival dispel darkness, foster harmony, and guide us all toward a future of peace, compassion, and shared prosperity.”
Sharif also used the occasion to highlight the importance of tolerance and equality, stating that “the spirit of Diwali that embodies light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair inspires our collective resolve to overcome the challenges confronting our societies.” His statement was widely appreciated as a gesture of inclusivity in Pakistan’s diverse cultural fabric.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (United Arab Emirates)
UAE Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, extended warm Diwali greetings to people celebrating the festival across the world. He said, “Warmest wishes and greetings to those celebrating Diwali in the UAE and around the world. May this festival of lights bring peace, safety, and prosperity to you and your loved ones. Happy Diwali!”
His message reflected the UAE’s strong relationship with its Indian community — one of the largest expatriate populations in the country. Dubai’s skyline also lit up with Diwali-themed decorations, symbolising the emirate’s inclusive celebration of global cultures and traditions.
Lawrence Wong (Singapore)
Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong shared his Diwali greetings through a video message posted on X, saying, “Light over darkness. Hope over fear. As we count down to Deepavali, we celebrate not just the lights that fill our homes, but the meaning they carry in our hearts.”
He also thanked the Indian community for its contributions to Singapore’s multicultural identity and urged citizens to cherish harmony and compassion. Diwali in Singapore is celebrated with grandeur, with Little India transforming into a radiant hub of festivities, lights, and cultural performances.
Mark Carney (Canada)
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney joined in the celebrations, sharing his message of hope and positivity. “Tonight, families and communities across Canada will light diyas and celebrate the triumph of light over darkness — of good over evil. Wishing everyone celebrating Diwali a joyful Festival of Lights,” he said in his message.
He acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Indo-Canadians to the nation’s diversity and social fabric. Across Canada, major cities like Toronto and Vancouver witnessed large-scale Diwali events, with fireworks, cultural shows, and community gatherings spreading festive cheer.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake (Sri Lanka)
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake extended greetings to Hindus in Sri Lanka and around the world. In his message, he said, “As lamps are lit in every home, we pray that this festival's light dispels the darkness in our hearts and illuminates our collective path.”
He drew parallels between Diwali’s symbolism and Sri Lanka’s fight against social evils, emphasising unity, compassion, and progress. His message highlighted the importance of shared cultural celebrations in strengthening the nation’s multi-ethnic harmony.
People of Indian Origin
Several Indian-origin leaders and public figures around the world also extended Diwali greetings. FBI Director Kash Patel said, “Happy Diwali—celebrating the Festival of Lights around the world, as good triumphs over evil.”
Indian-American entrepreneur and Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy shared, “Happy Diwali! May the light prevail over darkness.” Meanwhile, New York mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani wrote, “Shubh Deepavali! Wishing everyone a very happy Diwali. Across our city, families are lighting diyas and celebrating the triumph of light over darkness and hope over despair.”
Their messages reflected how Diwali transcends borders, uniting people across nations, faiths, and cultures in the shared belief that goodness and light will always prevail over despair and darkness.
Also Read: PM Modi’s Diwali Letter Urges Swadeshi, Language Harmony
About the Author:
Harshit Raj
