The Sindh government has officially declared Friday, November 1, as a public holiday for Hindu employees across the province to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights.
The notification extends to all government and semi-government departments, autonomous bodies, local councils, and corporations operating under the provincial government.
سندھ حکومت نے دیوالی کے موقع پر ہندو برادری سے تعلق رکھنے والے ملازمین کے لیے يكم نومبر بروز جمعہ تعطیل کا اعلان کیا ہے۔ نوٹیفکیشن کا اطلاق صوبائی حکومت کے ماتحت سرکاری و نیم سرکاری اداروں، خود مختار اداروں، لوکل کونسلوں اور کارپوریشنوں پر ہوگا۔ pic.twitter.com/AxWsknZl3p
— Sindh Information Department (@sindhinfodepart) October 28, 2024
Diwali, one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrations are marked by lighting oil lamps, creating intricate rangoli designs, exchanging gifts, and participating in prayers and feasts with family and friends.
In Sindh, Diwali carries special importance due to the province’s substantial Hindu population, particularly in regions like Tharparkar, Umerkot, and parts of Hyderabad, where the holiday is observed with much reverence.
Sindh remains one of the most religiously diverse regions in Pakistan, and this gesture reflects the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all communities.