In Sri Lanka, the Hindu community is celebrating festival of Deepawali with traditional fervour across the country today. People thronged the temples in Colombo in large numbers from early morning and prepared colourful Rangolis at their homes. Indian community residing in Colombo, including officials of High Commission of India, is also celebrating the festival in a big way.<br/><br/>In his message on the occasion, Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Deepavali is the Festival of Lights that expels darkness when symbolic lights are lit in Hindu homes. <br/><br/>He said, the festival assures us that its light can cast out animosity and restore faith. President Maithripala Sirisena in his message said, Deepavali should lighten up our hearts to work towards strengthening coexistence through reconciliation. <br/><br/>He said, a great opportunity has been secured to take the country from the darkness to light through meaningful reconciliation. The President and Prime minister attended a function at Temple trees Friday evening where prominent figures were present.