President Joe Biden's White House Hosts Last Diwali Celebration for Indian Americans as Astronaut Sends Them Special Message
Washington D.C. — President Joe Biden will host a celebration for Diwali, one of the most celebrated holidays in the Indian-American community, at the White House tonight. It will probably be the last Diwali of President Biden himself as he has already made it clear that he has decided not to contest in the 2024 presidential election of the United States. There will likely be a huge gathering of Indians in America on the festival day, with several fete-like programs to evoke the spirit and cultural warmth of the community.
During his remarks, President Biden will pay tribute to the Indian American community and common values between the US and India. A special introduction will be given by NASA astronaut and retired US Navy Captain Sunita "Suni" Williams who will present a video she recorded during her current mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, an active practicing Hindu and very influential leader in the Indian American community, took on command of the ISS back in September and frequently practices her own culture, among other acts, by celebrating Diwali by transmitting Diwali greetings down to Earth and taking ceremonial items like samosas aboard as well as copies of the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita into space.
Evening entertainment will be provided by Nootana, a Washington, D.C.-based South Asian classical dance and music ensemble, performing with the U.S. Marine Corps Band to add a mix of traditional and American music to the celebration.
President Biden also took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his sentiments, posting:
Today, Jill and I lit the Diya as a symbol of Diwali's message of seeking wisdom, love, and unity over hate and division's darkness. May we always embrace the enduring spirit that this holiday and our country represent-and reflect on strength of our shared light.
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