New Delhi, Oct 19 — Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, on Sunday extended warm Diwali greetings to the people of India, describing the festival as a celebration of light triumphing over darkness and good prevailing over evil — a “timeless and universal message of hope and renewal.”
In a video message shared on social media platform X, Ambassador Azar said that this year’s Diwali holds special meaning for people in Israel as the remaining living hostages have finally been reunited with their families. “On the occasion of Diwali, I extend my warmest wishes to all the people of India. My family and I will cherish this time together in Israel. We are especially grateful this year as the remaining hostages have finally returned home, allowing their families to feel the spirit of togetherness,” Azar said.
He added that the glowing lamps and festive lights of Diwali serve as a reminder that “even in challenging times, hope and goodness will always shine through.”
The Diwali festivities began with Dhanteras on Saturday, witnessing massive nationwide shopping. According to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), total trade crossed ₹1 lakh crore, making it one of the strongest festive seasons in recent years. Gold and silver sales alone exceeded ₹60,000 crore, while Delhi markets registered transactions worth over ₹10,000 crore.
Earlier this month, Israel announced that Hamas no longer holds any living Israeli hostages, with the final 13 captives handed over to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on October 13. Seven others had been released earlier the same day after more than two years of captivity.
Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis gathered at the Nova site — where Hamas carried out a deadly attack on October 7, 2023 — to hold special holiday prayers in remembrance and hope.
