New Delhi: French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday extended Diwali greetings to Indians in India, France and across the world, saying the festival's light should inspire people to uphold unity, peace and hope.

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Macron shared his wishes through an Instagram post featuring a photograph and messages in both English and Hindi.

"Wishing all my Indian friends in India, France, and around the world, a very happy Diwali!" he wrote.

In his Hindi message, Macron also extended his heartfelt wishes to everyone celebrating the festival.
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Earlier, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also extended Diwali greetings to people celebrating Deepavali across the world.

Describing the festival as a celebration of the victory of light, Albanese said it brings communities together across religious and cultural boundaries.

Albanese noted that Deepavali is celebrated by Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist communities and represents an ancient tradition of spiritual and personal renewal, generosity and new beginnings.

He also highlighted the festival's message of compassion and understanding, saying its values extend beyond religious and cultural boundaries.

"With love and unity at its luminous heart, it is a message and an invitation that is as welcome now as it has ever been," he said.

The Australian Prime Minister further acknowledged the contributions of the Indian diaspora and other communities celebrating the festival, noting that Deepavali has become an integral part of Australia's multicultural identity.
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He said these communities enrich the country through generations of hard work, aspirations and their commitment to their homeland.

Describing their contributions as a gift to all Australians, Albanese expressed hope that the celebrations would inspire people towards a brighter future.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is marked by the lighting of diyas, prayers, family gatherings and cultural celebrations, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.