French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday extended Diwali greetings to Indians in India, France and across the world, highlighting the festival’s message of unity, peace and hope.
Taking to Instagram, Macron shared a festive photograph along with a message wishing people celebrating the festival a happy Diwali.
“Wishing all my Indian friends in India, France, and around the world, a very happy Diwali! May its light inspire us to ever uphold unity, peace, and hope!” he wrote.
The French President also shared his greetings in Hindi, conveying his heartfelt wishes to people observing the festival and reiterating the importance of its message of togetherness and positivity.
Adding a musical touch to his post, Macron used the instrumental version of AR Rahman’s popular song ‘Jai Ho’ from the film *Slumdog Millionaire* as the background score.
His message comes as Diwali is being celebrated across India and by Indian communities worldwide, with people marking the occasion through prayers, lighting diyas, exchanging sweets and spending time with family and friends.
Macron’s greeting also highlighted the cultural connections between France and India, particularly the significance of the Indian diaspora in strengthening ties between the two countries.
Earlier, French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou had also extended Diwali wishes, describing the festival as a celebration of life, hope and new beginnings. He expressed hope that the occasion would further strengthen the friendship between France and India.
