Sindh Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Diwali
The Sindh government has officially declared a two-day public holiday for the Hindu community on October 20 and 21, 2025, in observance of Diwali, the festival of lights. This decision applies to Hindu employees across all government departments, autonomous and semi-autonomous organizations, local councils, and municipal bodies under the provincial administration. With Sunday, October 19, already a weekly holiday, this provides Hindu employees in Sindh with an extended three-day break to celebrate the significant festival. Essential services, however, will remain operational. The move has been widely appreciated as a step towards promoting religious harmony and inclusivity, particularly in Sindh, which hosts one of Pakistan's largest Hindu populations. , , ,
National Leaders Extend Warm Greetings
Top Pakistani leaders have extended heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community both within Pakistan and globally on the occasion of Diwali. President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized that Diwali symbolizes the 'triumph of light over darkness and good over evil,' reiterating the constitutional guarantee of equal rights and freedom of religion for all citizens. He also lauded the Hindu community's significant contributions to the nation's education, commerce, and public service sectors. , , , ,
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his wishes for the festival to 'dispel darkness, foster harmony, and guide us all toward a future of peace, compassion, and shared prosperity.' He highlighted the spirit of Diwali as an inspiration for collective efforts to overcome societal challenges like intolerance and inequality, reaffirming his government's commitment to equality and inclusivity for all communities. , , , , ,
Other prominent figures, including Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, also shared messages of peace, goodwill, and unity. Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced initiatives for minority welfare, such as a 'Special Minority Card' and a 'Minority Virtual Police Station' under the Safe Punjab Vision. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated his party's vision for a progressive and inclusive Pakistan where all faiths coexist peacefully. , , ,
Vibrant Celebrations Across the Nation
The Hindu community across Pakistan is celebrating Diwali with traditional fervor and enthusiasm. Temples nationwide, particularly in Sindh and southern Punjab, are illuminated with lamps and vibrant decorations. Families are engaging in traditional rituals, performing puja, exchanging sweets, and offering prayers for prosperity and peace. , , , ,
In Karachi, the main celebration in Sindh was hosted at the Governor House, with Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori attending as the chief guest. The event included a ceremonial cake-cutting and special prayers for Pakistan's peace and prosperity. Historic sites, such as the Swaminarayan Temple in Karachi, are also central to the festivities, featuring interfaith participation and cultural events, underscoring the nation's religious diversity and commitment to unity. ,
5 Comments
Karamba
Is this just for optics? Don't fall for political stunts.
Matzomaster
A great move by the Sindh government. Shows respect for all citizens.
Loubianka
This move by the Sindh government is commendable for promoting inclusivity, but one wonders if similar attention is given to the challenges faced by other minority groups in the country.
Muchacho
One holiday won't erase years of discrimination. We need more.
Habibi
The three-day break for Diwali is a welcome gesture for the Hindu community, providing a chance to celebrate. Still, the focus should also be on addressing the underlying socio-economic disparities that minorities often face.