US celebrates Diwali: President Joe Biden lights diya at White House, Sunita Williams wishes from space

President Joe Biden holding the hands of Soren, left, and Zara, the children of Representative Ro Khanna, in the East Room of the White House. The celebrations were attended by more than 600 prominent Indian Americans attended, showcasing the festival's growing significance in American culture and society.

(AP)

The Diwali celebration at the White House has a rich history, starting with President George Bush in 2003. Each administration has embraced this tradition, demonstrating the evolving recognition of cultural diversity in the nation’s highest office.

(AP)

Astronaut Sunita Williams also extended her Diwali wishes from the ISS, sharing her father's efforts to keep cultural roots alive. She emphasized the festival's message of hope and gratitude, thanking President Biden and Vice President Harris for recognizing the community's contributions.

(AP)

The event, marked by vibrant colors, reinforced Diwali's significance across the United States. Biden, who lit the formal diya in the Blue Room of the White House, hailed the South Asian American community, describing it as "the fastest-growing and most engaged community in the world."

X: @NealKatyal

The event also consisted of many traditional performance to celebrate the significance of this festival. During his address, Biden invoked the country's complex journey towards unity, highlighting that American democracy, with its unique challenges, thrives on diversity.

(X: @SuhagAShukla)

To further enhance the celebrations, US Marine Band performed the Oscar winning song 'Jai Ho' at the event. Apart from this, Nootana, a classical South Asian dance and music ensemble based in Washington, DC, also provided musical entertainment for guests.

(X: @rajpanjabi)

Prominent Indian Americans—including Congress members, officials, and corporate leaders had attended the festival, showcasing growing significance of the festival in American society.

(@rajpanjabi)