Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Diwali greetings to citizens across the country and said he would again spend the festival with defence personnel, continuing an annual tradition. In a video message titled "Have a great Diwali", he said the festival of lights symbolised the country's resolve against darkness and wished happiness, well-being and prosperity for all.
In the video message, Modi said: « Like every year, I will again be celebrating Diwali with our brave defence personnel. » He also posted greetings on X on Sunday, writing in Hindi that he extended boundless Diwali wishes to his family members across the country.
Modi met Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on the eve of the festival and exchanged Diwali greetings. The Vice-President's office shared details of the meeting on X. Modi later met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Sunday and wished her a happy Diwali, Rashtrapati Bhavan said in a post on X.
President Murmu also extended greetings to citizens, urging the country's youth to contribute enthusiastically towards building a developed India while remaining guided by Indian values. She called for protection of the environment and harmony, and wished Indians in the country and abroad good health, happiness and prosperity. Describing Diwali as a festival symbolising the victory of virtue over evil, she recalled the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravan, and said the festival also marked the auspicious beginning of Ram Rajya.
Vice-President Radhakrishnan travelled to Ayodhya to take part in Deepotsav 2026, the 10th edition of the celebrations, which is being held a day ahead of Diwali. Organisers are targeting the lighting of more than 30 lakh earthen lamps across 56 ghats, including Ram Ki Paidi and the banks of the Saryu river. The Vice-President is scheduled to offer prayers at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and take part in a symbolic coronation ceremony of Lord Ram.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath welcomed the Vice-President, foreign diplomats and other guests to the celebrations. The programme will include cultural performances by around 2,500 artists from India and abroad across 12 stages, along with a drone show.
Modi's annual practice of spending Diwali with the armed forces was also highlighted in his message, recognising the dedication and service of personnel to the nation. Diwali was being celebrated across India with diyas, decorative lights and colourful decorations in homes, streets and public spaces.