Washington: President Joe Biden will host a Diwali celebration at the White House on Monday evening, with a large gathering of Indian Americans from across the country expected to attend. Following this, President Biden will deliver remarks to the gathering of Indian Americans, for whom he is hosting a reception. Notably, this will be Biden’s last Diwali celebration at the white house, as he is not running for 2024 US presidential elections.
“Continuing a tradition from previous years, the President will light a Diya lamp in the Blue Room before his remarks,” the White House announced.
“Among the President’s introductions will be a video message from Sunita “Suni” Williams, a decorated NASA astronaut and retired Navy Captain. She recorded a video greeting from the International Space Station, where she took over as Commander in September,” the White House said.
“Suni is a practising Hindu and has previously sent Diwali greetings from the ISS to people across the globe. She has also brought multiple Indian/Hindu cultural items—including samosas and copies of Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita—with her to space in celebration of her heritage,” it continued.
“Nootana, a classical South Asian dance and music ensemble based in Washington, DC, will provide musical entertainment for guests, in addition to the Marine Corps Band,” stated the White House.
Taking on X (formerly Twitter), President Joe Biden posted, “Today, Jill and I lit the Diya to symbolize Diwali’s message of seeking the light of wisdom, love, and unity over the darkness of hate and division. May we embrace the enduring spirit of this holiday and of our nation – and reflect on the strength of our shared light.”
Today, Jill and I lit the Diya to symbolize Diwali’s message of seeking the light of wisdom, love, and unity over the darkness of hate and division.
May we embrace the enduring spirit of this holiday and of our nation – and reflect on the strength of our shared light. pic.twitter.com/eHjfQ68rXU
— President Biden (@POTUS) November 14, 2023
(With PTI inputs)
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