TORONTO — Ontario Premier Doug Ford has extended his greetings to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist and Jain communities celebrating Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, highlighting the cultural significance of both occasions and recognizing the contributions of South Asian communities to the province’s economic growth, innovation and social development.
In a statement issued by the Premier’s Office on November 8, 2026, Ford emphasized the importance of unity, freedom, resilience and cultural diversity while acknowledging the role of South Asian residents in strengthening Ontario’s communities and economy.
Premier Ford Highlights the Significance of Diwali Across Ontario
Diwali, widely recognized as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by millions of people worldwide, including families and communities throughout Ontario.
The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. Traditional celebrations often include lighting decorative lamps, gathering with relatives, exchanging gifts and sharing festive meals.
Ontario’s multicultural population plays an important role in maintaining these traditions, with Diwali celebrations bringing together residents from different cultural and religious backgrounds.
In his official statement, Premier Ford said:
“Today, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist and Jain families and communities across Ontario come together to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Families will gather, light lamps and candles and share gifts to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil.
Bandi Chhor Divas Recognizes Freedom and Resilience
Alongside Diwali, Sikh communities commemorate Bandi Chhor Divas, also known as the Day of Liberation.
The occasion honours the release of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru, from imprisonment and his role in securing the freedom of 52 other prisoners.
Bandi Chhor Divas carries significant religious and historical meaning for Sikhs, emphasizing principles of justice, courage, compassion and freedom.
The occasion is traditionally marked through prayers, religious gatherings and the illumination of gurdwaras, which serve as important centres of worship and community engagement.
Ford acknowledged the historical importance of the commemoration, stating:
This day also marks Bandi Chhor Divas, celebrated by Sikhs as the Day of Liberation. The commemoration of the release of Guru Hargobind from imprisonment and the peaceful liberation of 52 innocent prisoners is a powerful reminder of the Guru’s commitment to freedom, courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
Ontario Recognizes South Asian Contributions to Economic Growth
Beyond the religious and cultural significance of the celebrations, Ford’s message highlighted the contributions of South Asian communities to Ontario’s development.
South Asian Canadians participate in a broad range of industries, including technology, financial services, health care, education, manufacturing and entrepreneurship.
Their involvement in business ownership, professional services and community organizations forms part of Ontario’s diverse economic landscape.
For businesses across the province, cultural celebrations such as Diwali also provide opportunities for local commerce, particularly among retailers, restaurants, specialty food businesses and other service providers.
These activities reflect the connections between cultural traditions, community engagement and Ontario’s broader business environment.
In recognizing these contributions, Ford said:
These special occasions are also a time to celebrate the many contributions of people of South Asian descent in building a strong, diverse and thriving Ontario. Their hard work, innovation and commitment to service are helping to build a brighter future for everyone in our province.
Cultural Diversity Remains an Important Part of Ontario’s Identity
Ontario is home to established South Asian communities across the Greater Toronto Area and other regions of the province.
Cities such as Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga and Markham have significant South Asian populations, contributing to the province’s cultural diversity through community events, businesses, religious institutions and civic participation.
Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations provide opportunities for families to preserve cultural traditions while sharing their heritage with the wider public.
Ontario Government Extends Festive Wishes
Concluding his statement, Premier Ford extended greetings on behalf of the provincial government:
On behalf of the Government of Ontario, to everyone celebrating, I wish you a happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas!”
The Premier’s message underscores the importance of recognizing religious and cultural traditions while acknowledging the contributions of diverse communities to Ontario’s social and economic development.
As residents celebrate both occasions, the provincial government’s statement places particular emphasis on unity, community service and the shared values that contribute to Ontario’s multicultural identity.
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