ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan wished a happy Diwali to Pakistan's Hindus as the annual five-day celebration started on Saturday.
One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali is also known as the festival of lights and is usually observed between mid-October and mid-November. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity for the community.
"Wishing all our Hindu citizens a happy Diwali," the prime minister said in a Twitter post.
Other prominent members of the government, including Foreign Minister Mahmoud Qureshi and Science and Technology Minister Fawad Chaudhry also offered their wishes.
"To all Pakistanis celebrating, a very happy Diwali to you. May the light of Diwali shine in your homes and lives," Qureshi wrote.
Chaudhry wished a happy Diwali to "all Hindu friends" with hope that "lights conquer darkness always."
According to the Pakistan Hindu Council, there are around 8 million Hindus in Pakistan. Most of them live in Sindh province.
