Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Sunday, October 19, conveyed Deepavali greetings to Singaporeans, highlighting the festival’s message of light, hope and renewal. His message came as celebrations began across the country’s temples, markets and homes, where members of the Indian community prepared for the Festival of Lights.
In a post shared on X, Wong said, “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. Wishing everyone a bright and meaningful Festival of Lights ahead.”
The Prime Minister’s message was accompanied by a short video clip showing colourful glimpses of the Deepavali spirit in Singapore. The video included scenes of people applying mehendi, bursting crackers and shopping for sweets, capturing the mood in the city’s vibrant markets.
Light over darkness. Hope over fear.
— Lawrence Wong (@LawrenceWongST) October 19, 2025
As we count down to Deepavali, we celebrate not just the lights that fill our homes, but the meaning they carry in our hearts.
Wishing everyone a bright and meaningful Festival of Lights ahead. ✨🪔 pic.twitter.com/GnenPV10lX
In the video, several Singaporeans shared what Deepavali meant to them. One participant said, “Deepavali for us, since we were kids, means celebration, having a new start every year. Yeah, being joyful and happy together.”
Others added, “Fireworks. Sweets. Family gathering.” A light-hearted moment came when another participant said, “Money, money, money. By my age, nobody’s giving me anything anymore. So now, I actually look forward to just seeing the family. And I want to wish all of you a happy Deepavali. Happy Deepavali.”
As the video ended, citizens across the island nation were seen extending greetings, saying, “Happy Deepavali,” amid scenes of lighted diyas and decorated homes. Wong’s message and the visuals together reflected the multicultural harmony that marks Singapore’s festive landscape every year.
Outside Singapore, several leaders and diplomats also extended their wishes to mark the occasion. Japan’s Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, shared a post on X featuring photographs of a special Diwali lunch hosted by the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi. He wrote, “The Embassy of Japan in India held a wonderful Diwali lunch party to celebrate the Festival of Lights. We extend warm wishes to everyone for a joyful and prosperous Diwali. May the light of Diwali bring hope and positivity to all.”
In India, preparations and celebrations continued across major cities. In Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta took part in Deepotsav celebrations at Kartavya Path on Saturday evening.
“Diwali is not just a festival but a symbol of devotion for us. Lord Ram returning to his home and the triumph of good over evil continues to inspire us. The entire city of Delhi will celebrate the festival of Diwali together. Lakhs of diyas are lit at the Kartavya Path…We hope that the festival of Diwali will bring a smile on the faces of the people of Delhi,” she said.
The event featured lighting of over 150,000 diyas, cultural performances, a Ram Katha, and a drone show. The celebrations drew large crowds and illuminated the central boulevard of the capital.
Diwali, also known as Deepawali, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Across India and beyond, homes and streets glowed with diyas and decorations as families gathered to celebrate the festival with prayers, sweets and joy.
