Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams has sent an annual message to Hindu communities in Britain for Diwali, the 'festival of lights', which is also marked by Sikhs and celebrates the victory of good over evil and hope over despair.

Vatican Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, has sent his greetings and best wishes to the Hindu community ahead of the feast of Diwali.

The Vatican has sent a message urging cooperation between Christians and Hindus in anticipation of their celebration of Diwali on 9 November. Shared by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across the world as the 'Festival of Light,' Diwali marks the triumph of life over death.