Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper was the chief guest at the Diwali celebrations at the Federal Parliamentary Buildings in Ottawa on Monday.
The function was organised by Conservative Member of Parliament, Deepak Obhrai, who's also Parliamentary Secretary to Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Harper extended his 'warmest greetings and best wishes to members of the Indo-Canadian community'.
He said: "Since its birth, Canada has bound together individuals of varying ethnic and religious backgrounds in pursuit of a common goal -- to build a peaceful, prosperous country rooted in equality of opportunity."
Addressing an overflowing gathering, he praised the Indo-Canadian community for their contributions towards this endeavor: "Fuelled by an unshakeable work ethic and commitment to family and community, Indo-Canadians are helping to build a stronger, better Canada for us," he said.
Praising Obhrai's role in building bridges between Canada's Conservative Government and the Indo-Canadian community, Harper said, "Deepak has been particularly active in helping Canada strengthen its relationship with India, the world's most populous democracy and an emerging economic power."
In his speech, Obhrai said Diwali can now be considered a truly Canadian festival with Indo-Canadians and well-wishers from coast to coast joining to celebrate the festival of lights.
Image: Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper (2nd from left) lights a Diwali lamp at the Parliamentary Building in Ottawa. Conservative Member of Parliament, Deepak Obhrai (extreme left) organised the Dewali celebrations.
Text: Ajit Jain in Toronto
