Bollywood stars celebrate Diwali – the festival of lights – on social media
Written by News on 15/11/2020
Bollywood stars have shared their Diwali well wishes on social media, celebrating the five-day religious festival which is the equivalent of Christmas.
The festival of lights – which is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs – is being marked by more than a billion Indians despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
India has confirmed 8.7 million cases of the coronavirus, including 129,000 deaths and is second in the world for total cases behind the US.
As many turned to virtual celebrations instead of in-person gatherings, actors from across the Indian film industry sent well wishes to fans.
Soha Ali Khan
The actress shared a picture of herself on Instagram wearing sunglasses and a lilac sari alongside a Diwali message.
She wrote: “You can forgive someone who is afraid of the dark but the real tragedy of life is to be afraid of the light.
“Let there be light. Happy Diwali (and if it’s too bright for you, wear sunglasses).”
Amitabh Bachchan
The 78-year-old actor, producer and TV host wished followers a happy Diwali by sharing a report about a Guinness World Record set for the largest display of oil lamps in the city of Ayodhya.
The lighting of the clay lamps symbolise a victory of light over darkness.
Regarded as one of the best actors in Indian cinema, he’s also hosted several series of India’s version of game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.
His son Abhishek Bachchan, who is also an actor, also tweeted to wish everyone “a very happy, healthy, peaceful and safe Diwali”.
Salman Khan
The actor and producer shared a photo of himself in the spotlight, wearing a floral kaftan.
He wrote: “Wishing all a v Happy Diwali n a prosperous new year … stay safe.”
The 54-year-old was sentenced to five years in jail back in 1998 for poaching a rare antelope, however he is currently appealing the decision and is out on bail.
Katrina Kaif
English actress and model Katrina Kaif who was born in Hong Kong, has established herself on the Bollywood scene and is now one of India’s highest paid stars.
The 37-year-old shared a photo on Instagram of her holding a candle in a cerise and gold sari.
She wrote: “Love and light to all.”
Shah Rukh Khan
Often known as simply SRK, the 55-year-old is one of the most successful film stars in the world, estimated to be worth over $600m (£455m).
In 2014 he was awarded the French Legion Of Honour, the highest distinction in the country for military and civil merits.
Alongside a selfie, SRK wrote on Instagram: “Happy Diwali to one and all… may the beauty of this festival fill every heart with happiness and love.
“May all your troubles be overcome and let’s pray that this Diwali sets the tone for a brighter, happier life ahead.”
(c) Sky News 2020: Bollywood stars celebrate Diwali – the festival of lights – on social media
