Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama [Images] says that Diwali, the festival of lights, holds special meaning for him.

Special: Shubh Diwali

Extending Diwali greetings, Obama said, 'In the coming days, Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and their friends of all faiths will gather across America and around the world to celebrate the festival of lights. Much has happened in the world since the last Diwali, and this is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the year past and rededicate ourselves to spreading peace and tolerance in the coming year.'

'Last year, I wrote that Diwali's celebration of the triumph of illumination over ignorance had a special meaning for me. At that time, travelling across America and meeting people of every spiritual and ethnic background showed me that there's much more that unites us than divides us. Now, one year later, I believe this even more strongly.'

'Americans, despite our varied backgrounds, believe that all people are created equal, and that each person should be free to practice or not practice religion as they choose. These beliefs have faced challenges at home and abroad throughout history, but they are the beliefs our nation was founded on, and we always return to them.'

'This is our time to create change, and I believe that we can and must continue the fight against ignorance and intolerance. I hope you enjoy your celebration and renew your commitment to overcoming ignorance. I wish you all the best for a joyous Diwali,' he said in a statement