Vatican's Diwali message stresses religious harmony

The Vatican called for greater unity and religious tolerance as it greeted millions of Hindus on the occasion of Diwali on Saturday.

"Dear Hindu Friends...a happy Deepavali (Diwali)! Religious Festivals enable us to revitalize our relationship with God and one another," read the message signed by the head of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran.

"Christians and Hindus: Committed to Integral Human Development," was the title of the message which was also signed by the council's secretary, Archbishop Pier Luigi Celata.

"In the process of integral development, protection of human life and respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of the person, are a responsibility of everyone, both individually and collectively", the statement said.

"Respect for others therefore implies the recognition of their freedom: freedom of conscience, thought and religion."

On the occasion, it urged Hindus to join together to dispel every darkness that hinders a true vision of co-existence, religious harmony and integral development for each and every person.

"May Deepavali be an occasion to celebrate our friendship and boldly proclaim the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and work together to bring about an era of true freedom 'for all' and integral human development 'of all'," the message concluded.

Diwali, known as the festival of light, is a major festival in Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism and is celebrated by billions of people worldwide.