A performer dressed in Sikh bhangra attire holds the flag of Australia, while another man waves the Indian flag during a Diwali celebration in Melbourne.

Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across the globe as the “Festival of Light,” signifying the victory of good over the evil within every human being. It may have originated as a harvest festival, marking the last harvest of the year before winter.

Australia recently elected a new prime minister, Kevin Rudd, to succeed John Howard, who had filled the position since 1996.

Rudd is a departure from Howard’s style of leadership, as he has stated his intention to withdraw Australia’s 550 troops from Iraq, as well as sign the Kyoto Protocol. Additionally, Rudd plans to help design the next environmental pact that will follow the Kyoto Protocol when it expires.

The new Australian leader, who speaks fluent Mandarin, is expected to forge closer ties with China, a major buyer of Australian coal.

Federation Square, Melbourne

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