Sukkur, Report by Majid Mahmood:
The Hindu community in Sukkur celebrated the joyous festival of Diwali with great enthusiasm and unity as a colorful ceremony was organized at the Napar Darbar Temple, located within the jurisdiction of A-Section Police Station. The event marked an important moment of interfaith harmony, attended by senior government and police officials as special guests.
Among the distinguished attendees were Commissioner Sukkur Abid Saleem Qureshi, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sukkur Captain (R) Faisal Abdullah Chachar, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Sukkur Nadir Shehzad Khan, and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sukkur Azhar Khan. Their participation symbolized the district administration’s commitment to promoting religious inclusivity and harmony among all communities in the region.
➤ Warm Reception for Guests of Honor
Upon their arrival at the temple, the guests of honor were warmly received by the temple administration and members of the Hindu community. The entire premises were beautifully decorated with colorful lights, flowers, and traditional oil lamps (diyas), adding to the festive spirit of Diwali, the festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
As part of the celebration, district and police officials joined the Hindu community in cutting a Diwali cake, marking the occasion with joy and goodwill. Laughter, music, and cultural performances filled the temple courtyard as participants celebrated together, reflecting the message of peace, unity, and brotherhood that Diwali represents.
➤ Expression of Gratitude and Interfaith Solidarity
During the ceremony, the temple’s management expressed heartfelt gratitude to the special guests for honoring the Hindu community by attending their religious festival. In a symbolic gesture of friendship, the organizers presented memorable gifts to the visiting officials.
Commissioner Sukkur Abid Saleem Qureshi praised the event as a reflection of Pakistan’s social and cultural diversity, emphasizing that the participation of government representatives demonstrated the state’s dedication to protecting the rights and traditions of every citizen, regardless of religion.
He noted,
“Pakistan is like a beautiful bouquet where people of all faiths coexist peacefully. Events like this remind us that our strength lies in our unity and mutual respect.”
➤ Officials Extend Diwali Greetings
Addressing the media after the event, DIG Sukkur Captain (R) Faisal Abdullah Chachar, DC Nadir Shehzad Khan, and SSP Azhar Khan extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to the Hindu community across Pakistan. They lauded the efforts of the local administration and police in ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for all religious celebrations.
DIG Chachar stated that law enforcement agencies were fully committed to interfaith harmony, adding that the police force would continue to safeguard the rights and freedoms of all citizens to practice their faith freely and without fear.
He said,
“Every religion preaches peace, love, and respect for others. The role of the police is not only to maintain law and order but also to help build a society where everyone feels safe to celebrate their beliefs.”
➤ Diwali in Sukkur: A Symbol of Peace and Unity
The Diwali event in Sukkur was more than just a festival—it served as a reminder of the city’s rich tradition of interreligious coexistence. The temple was illuminated with hundreds of small oil lamps, and families dressed in bright, festive attire participated in rituals, prayers, and traditional dances.
Children could be seen playing with sparklers while elders exchanged sweets and blessings. The joyous atmosphere was a testament to the strong sense of community that continues to thrive in Sukkur despite religious differences.
Hindu leaders expressed deep appreciation for the presence of Muslim officials, noting that such participation strengthens social bonds and sends a powerful message of unity to the entire nation.
One of the temple representatives said,
“When we see our Muslim brothers and government officials celebrating Diwali with us, it gives us hope and confidence that Pakistan truly values its minorities. We feel proud to be part of this nation.”
➤ The Role of Administration in Promoting Tolerance
Over the past few years, the Sindh government and Sukkur administration have actively supported initiatives aimed at promoting religious tolerance and preserving minority rights. Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Christmas are regularly observed in public spaces under the supervision of local authorities to ensure inclusivity and security.
Deputy Commissioner Nadir Shehzad Khan reiterated the government’s stance, saying that no citizen should feel excluded on the basis of faith. He added,
“Our administration is working hand in hand with community leaders to create an environment where every religion can flourish peacefully. The presence of all key departments at this event reflects that commitment.”
➤ A Step Toward a Harmonious Future
The celebration ended with a joint prayer for peace, prosperity, and unity in Pakistan. The guests and temple leaders lit ceremonial lamps together, symbolizing shared hope for a brighter and more harmonious future.
As the night sky above Sukkur lit up with fireworks and glowing diyas, the atmosphere carried a powerful message — that Pakistan’s true strength lies in diversity and mutual respect.
