Congratulations on Diwali, the Festival of Lights

Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, symbolises the victory of light over darkness and of good over evil. Millions of people around the world celebrate this festival, which lasts several days – and stands for family, harmony and new beginnings – with oil lamps (‘diyas’), colourful ‘rangoli’ floor designs, fireworks and sweet treats.

Here is a message from the Mayor of Karlsruhe, 
Dr Frank Mentrup:

Dear members of the Hindu community in Karlsruhe, on the occasion of the Festival of Lights, Diwali, I send my warmest greetings and best wishes to everyone celebrating this special festival here in Karlsruhe.

Diwali brings together millions of people all over the world. Here in Karlsruhe, too, families and friends gather to celebrate together and light a candle.

Diwali symbolises the victory of light over darkness, hope and confidence, and the power of community. This message is particularly important at a time when so much is in flux and some people are concerned about how freely they can practise their religion, culture and traditions in public.

An open society is characterised by the fact that diversity is not perceived as a threat, but as part of our shared life. It is also characterised by people with different backgrounds and roots coming together and realising how much they have in common. Karlsruhe is such a city.

People from many parts of Germany and the world have found a home here. They bring with them their languages, their religions, their family histories and their traditions, thereby making our city more vibrant and enriching our community.

With this in mind, I wish all the people of Karlsruhe who are celebrating Diwali a peaceful festival.

Photo: City of Karlsruhe, Christoph Rapp