VOIWORLD
Amid a diplomatic standoff with India, Justin Trudeau, the prime minister of Canada, sent greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion of the Navratri. On his official handle, Justin Trudeau posted, “Happy Navratri! I’m sending my warmest wishes to members of the Hindu community and all those who are celebrating this festival.”
This comes after the Prime Minister of Canada told his country’s parliament last month that there was cause to think that Indian agents were responsible for the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India denied the assertions, labelling them as “absurd” and “motivated.” Tensions between the two countries escalated after this, and both countries expelled a diplomat.
India also suspended new visas for Canadians and asked Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic presence in India. Trudeau later said that Canada was not looking to escalate the dispute. “We’re taking this extremely seriously, but we’re going to continue to engage responsibly and constructively with the government of India,” he said.
Now, Indians as well as Hindus in Canada are celebrating one of the most important and sacred festivals in the Hindu faith: Navratri. Trudeau has termed the festival a chance to grab knowledge about the culture of Hindu communities and an occasion to recognise their contributions to Canada. In the official press statement released by the Canadian PM, he said, “Often seen as a celebration of feminine energy, it is a time for friends and family to come together and honour century-old traditions with prayers, joyous performances, special meals, and fireworks. Today’s celebrations remind us that diversity is one of Canada’s greatest strengths. On behalf of my family and the Government of Canada, I extend my best wishes to everyone celebrating Navratri this year.”
