President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday, 8 November 2026 extended Diwali greetings to all Indians at home and abroad, calling on the country's 'patriotic youth' to contribute enthusiastically toward the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). Her message came as millions across the country celebrated the festival of lights with diyas, decorative illuminations, and traditional fervour.

The President's Message

In an official statement, President Murmu reflected on the cultural and spiritual significance of Diwali, tracing its roots to Bhagwan Shri Ram's return to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana. 'The joyous celebrations followed Bhagwan Shri Ram's return to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana. Bhagwan Shri Ram beheld the beautiful rows of illuminated lamps. This forms the cultural and devotional significance of Diwali. The festival also symbolises the auspicious beginning of Ram Rajya,' she said.

President Murmu described Diwali as a festival marking the 'victory of virtues over negative tendencies', and as a symbol of the 'end of suffering and the beginning of a joyful and prosperous life'. She also noted the importance of worshipping Bhagwan Ganesh for auspicious beginnings and Mahalakshmi Mata for prosperity during the occasion.

Call to Youth on Viksit Bharat

The President's message carried a forward-looking appeal directed at the nation's younger generation. 'I wish good health, happiness and prosperity to every citizen of our country. May we preserve the environment, live with harmony and may our patriotic youth, guided by Indian values, contribute enthusiastically to building a Viksit Bharat,' she stated. The Viksit Bharat initiative, which aims to transform India into a fully developed nation by 2047, has been a recurring theme in official messaging from both the President and the Centre.

PM Modi Also Extends Wishes, to Celebrate with Troops

Earlier on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended Diwali greetings to citizens. Taking to social media platform X, Modi shared his wishes in Hindi, posting: 'Diwali wishes to everyone! Boundless Diwali wishes to my family members across the country.' Continuing a long-standing tradition, the Prime Minister is set to celebrate Diwali with defence personnel this year as well, a gesture that underscores the government's emphasis on honouring the armed forces during national festivals.

Diwali Celebrations Across India

Across the country, homes, streets, and public spaces were illuminated with diyas and decorative lights on Sunday as Indians marked one of the year's most widely celebrated festivals. The occasion brings together devotional observance, family gatherings, and community festivities, drawing participation from communities across regions and demographics.

As both the President and Prime Minister align their Diwali messaging with the Viksit Bharat narrative, the festival has increasingly become a moment for official outreach on national development goals alongside its cultural and spiritual observance.