President Zardari urges Hindu community to observe Holi with simplicity

2026-03-01 - 19:33

President Asif Ali Zardari has urged the Hindu community to celebrate the upcoming festival of Holi in a simple and restrained manner this year in view of the prevailing situation on Pakistan’s western border and broader regional tensions. In a message issued on the occasion, the president said that while Pakistan takes pride in its rich religious and cultural diversity, the current circumstances call for moderation and reflection. He appealed to the community to tone down public festivities and large gatherings, keeping in mind the security environment and the need for national cohesion. “Pakistan is home to people of different faiths who have always contributed positively to the country’s social fabric,” the president said, adding that the spirit of unity and solidarity should guide celebrations during challenging times. He expressed hope that Holi would be observed in a spirit of peace, understanding and harmony, with due consideration for the national interest. The president also extended his heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community, wishing them happiness and prosperity on the festival. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of minorities and promoting interfaith harmony across the country. Meanwhile, Patron-in-Chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council, Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, endorsed the president’s appeal and termed it timely and responsible. In an emergency statement, Dr Vankwani, who is also a Member of the National Assembly representing minorities, said the appeal rightly called for limiting large public gatherings in light of the prevailing regional tensions and security concerns. He emphasized that ensuring national security and the safety of citizens is a shared responsibility. “The patriotic Hindu community of Pakistan has always played a constructive role in promoting national unity, harmony and interfaith cohesion,” he said, adding that the community stands with the nation during difficult times. Following the President’s message, Dr Vankwani issued directives to the Pakistan Hindu Council to review preparations for annual Holi celebrations across the country. He urged community representatives to exercise caution, avoid large-scale public events and extend full cooperation to local authorities to ensure peaceful observance of the festival. Expressing his good wishes to the Hindu community, Dr Vankwani said he hoped Holi would be celebrated in a spirit of peace, brotherhood, tolerance and interfaith harmony. He noted that the current situation demands restraint, patience and collective responsibility, reiterating that the safety of citizens and national security must remain the foremost priority. Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated by Hindu communities across Pakistan with religious rituals and cultural gatherings, symbolising joy, renewal and communal harmony.