Islamabad:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday congratulated the Hindu community on Holi, urging people to resolve to “celebrate our differences as strengths” to mark the auspicious festival. In Punjab, special Holi packages were announced for 700 Hindu families.
Hindu communities in Pakistan and around the world celebrated Holi on Monday.
“On the auspicious occasion of Holi, the festival of colours, I extend my congratulations to the Hindu community. As Pakistanis, we are proud of the multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-cultural and multi-religious character of our society.” Sharif said in Said in the speech.
“Let us mark this day with the resolve to see our differences as strengths. May the arrival of spring bring new beginnings, hope and happiness to us all. Happy Holi to all who celebrate!” Sharif said.
President Asif Ali Zardari also took the opportunity to extend his blessings to Hindus.
Zardari said that the Pakistani constitution guarantees religious freedom, which reflects that Pakistan is a pluralistic country where people of different faiths coexist harmoniously.
“May the celebrations bring peace, prosperity and joy not only to the lives of Hindus but to the lives of all people,” he said in his message on Sunday.
Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also extended his wishes to all those celebrating Holi.
In a statement on Sunday, the former foreign minister and son of President Zardari stressed the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect for multicultural traditions in the country. “Holi reminds people of our common humanity that transcends religious or cultural differences,” he said. In addition, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also congratulated the Hindu community on the occasion of Holi and declared 700 Hindu The family offers special Holi packages.
According to the CM Secretariat, checks worth Rs 10,000 each will be distributed as part of the Holi program to enhance the joy of the Hindu community.
Officials say the provincial government is committed to representing every citizen and serving everyone.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
