MELBOURNE: Ahead of Diwali, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull today wished Indians a joyous and prosperous year, saying the spirit and message of the ancient festival resonates across faiths and cultures.
Describing Diwali as one of the most important events on the Hindu calendar, Turnbull said it was a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge "our great fortune" to live in a land of peace and tolerance where diversity is valued and celebrated.
"It is a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair, the spirit and message of this ancient festival resonates across faiths and cultures," the prime minister said about Diwali, which will be celebrated on October 19 this year.
Turnbull, who visited India in April this year, said people from around the globe and from all faiths and traditions, live together in remarkable harmony. This, he added, was due to "our commitment to mutual respect".
"We are the most successful multicultural nation on earth, and with each passing day this becomes more evident,"
he said, adding "against a twilight of widening divisions and deepening conflict around the world, our nation shines brightly as a beacon."
The Indian community in Australia stands nearly at 4,96,000, contributing significantly to the country's economy as teachers, doctors, accountants, engineers and IT experts.
India is now the third largest source of immigrants to Australia, and the second largest source of skilled professionals for the country, according to information available on the Ministry of External Affairs website.
The two countries share a friendly relationship and the growing significance of the community is reflected in the large scale celebration of Indian festivals in Australia, especially Diwali, it said.