Washington, Oct 26 (IANS): Recognizing the religious and historical significance of Diwali, the US Senate has greeted Indian diaspora across the world by expressing its "deepest respect for Indian Americans and South Asian Americans."

A resolution adopted by the Senate said "in observance of Diwali, the festival of lights, (Senate) expresses its deepest respect for Indian Americans and South Asian Americans, as well as fellow countrymen and diaspora throughout the world on this significant occasion."

The resolution introduced in the Senate by Senators Robert Menendez, John Cornyn and Mark Warner noted "Diwali, a festival of great significance to Indian Americans and South Asian Americans, is celebrated annually by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains throughout India, the United States, and the world."

Outlinining the significance of Diwali for Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, the resolution noted during the festival of lights "celebrants light small oil lamps, place the lamps around the home, and pray for health, knowledge, peace, wealth, and prosperity in the new year.

"The lights symbolise the light of knowledge within the individual that overwhelms the darkness of ignorance, empowering each celebrant to do good deeds and show compassion to others."

In a separate message Menendez said Diwali "is also an opportunity to celebrate India's great history, culture, and people and the enduring bonds and shared democratic values that have allowed the US and India to work together to reach common goals."