Canadian Parliament celebrates noiseless Diwali

Canada's top political leaders including the prime minister converged on Parliament Hill, which houses the country's top legislative body, to celebrate the festival of lights amid much fanfare but without any of the loud fireworks that Diwali is associated with in India.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper and members of his cabinet, leaders of political parties, senators, and other dignitaries including Shyamala B Cowsik, High Commissioner of India to Canada participated in the function organised by The India Canada Association, on Monday night.

Greeting each other by saying Namaste, Sat Sri Akal and Namashkar, the participants lighted electronic lamps that looked like traditional oil lamps. There were no crackers, rockets or other fancy fireworks.

Speaking on the occasion, Harper commended the contributions made by Indo-Canadians.

"Fuelled by an unshakeable work ethic and commitment to family and community, Indo-Canadians are helping to build a stronger, and better future for us," he said.

"Diwali symbolises the renewal of life and the triumph of good over evil. Every year, this joyous occasion is celebrated by some one billion people of the Hindu, Sikh and Jain faiths around the world. And that includes some one million of our fellow citizens right here in Canada," he said.