The message adds: “As the Vesak festival of Buddhists, Deepavali of Hindus, the festival of lights is a historic celebration, which bestows freedom on human society by defeating evil. In view of that, I believe that these kind of cultural events will be a great opportunity to build communal reconciliation and mutual understanding among the people in an environment where we live anticipating reconciliation and harmony.

“The Deepavali cultural festival that is celebrated with utmost devotion not only by Sri Lankan Hindus, but also Hindus throughout the world, including those living in India, Nepal, Singapore and Malaysia, paves the way to build a brotherly relationship between the countries.

“May the lamps that illuminate during Deepavali pave the way to gain victory of knowledge over ignorance, and I wish all Hindus in Sri Lanka and abroad who celebrate Deepavali, happiness and prosperity and may their lives be illuminated with wisdom,” the message states.