‘We reflect on strength of our shared light’: US President Joe Biden extends Diwali wishes

Diwali message of seeking light of wisdom, love, and unity prevails, said US President Joe Biden.

Updated on: Nov 12, 2023, 21:04:27 IST

By HT News Desk

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US President Joe Biden on Sunday extended Diwali greetings to South Asian Americans and all those celebrating the festival of “wisdom, love, and unity over the darkness of ignorance, hate, and division”.

Read Joe Biden’s Diwali wish

“Over the course of generations, South Asian Americans have woven Diwali traditions into the fabric of our nation – symbolizing the message of seeking the light of wisdom, love, and unity over the darkness of ignorance, hate, and division.

It’s a message that has helped our nation emerge stronger from the past few difficult years, and matters now more than ever. On this Diwali, may we reflect on the strength of our shared light and embrace the enduring spirit of this holiday and of our nation.

To the more than one billion Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists celebrating in America and around the world, we wish you a happy Diwali,” Biden said in his Diwali message.

Diwali at White House

Vice President Kamala Harris, who shares her root with India, hosted a Diwali event at the White House on Wednesday, welcoming influential figures from South Asian communities.

In her speech, Harris said: “This year we celebrate Diwali at a time where there's a lot happening in our world,” the vice president said

The event was attended by Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, Bela Bajaria, CCO of Netflix, US Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, US Rep. Pooja Bavishi, Miss USA Nina Davaluri and others.

US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti celebrated Diwali for the first time in India.

Taking to social media platform X, Garcetti said, “Delighted to celebrate #Diwali with dance, food and music with my colleagues for the first time here in India! At this auspicious time, may the festival of light bring you happiness and prosperity in the new year!”

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