Trudeau extends greetings on Navaratri

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has extended his greetings to the people in Canada and abroad on the occasion of Navaratri, or the festival of nine nights.

In a statement, Trudeau said, "This evening, Hindu communities in Canada and around the world will celebrate the beginning of one of their most important festivals, Navratri. The celebrations, which symbolize the triumph of good over evil, take place over nine nights and ten days. Throughout the festivities, families and friends come together to pray, dance, and observe traditions in hundreds of different forms passed down from generation to generation."

"The festival is now celebrated globally by Hindus and non-Hindus alike. It is a joyful time that reminds us of the invaluable contributions the Hindu community makes every day to our national fabric. On behalf of our family, (wife) Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a happy Navratri," he added.

Navaratri falls in the lunar month of Ashwin during autumn. The festival, which commenced today, is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga and will culminate on the tenth day with Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra, on October 19. During these nine days, devotees observe fast to pay obeisance to the deity.