U.S, President Barack Obama has conveyed his greetings to people around the world observing the holiday of Diwali, the festival of lights.

In a statement Wednesday, the president says the holiday is a time for contemplation and prayer that serves as a reminder of our obligations to our fellow human beings, especially the less fortunate.

Diwali is the biggest holiday of the year for Hindus and is also observed by Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. It is celebrated by gathering with family and friends and lighting a diya, or lamp, which symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

Mr. Obama is the first U.S. president to have marked Diwali at the White House.