October 28, 2024
2 mins read

President Biden to celebrate Diwali

Continuing a tradition from previous years, the President will light a Diya lamp in the Blue Room before his remarks…reports Asian Lite News

US President Joe Biden would celebrate Diwali on Monday evening with a large number of Indian-Americans from across the country at the White House, his last as the President, the White House said in a statement.

The day promises to be a memorable tribute to Indian heritage and culture, emphasising the growing bond between the US and the Indian-American community.

Continuing a tradition from previous years, the President will light a Diya lamp in the Blue Room before his remarks, the White House said.

After this, he would deliver remarks before a gathering of Indian-Americans, for whom he is hosting a reception.

This would be President Biden’s last Diwali reception at the White House as he is not running for the presidential election.

Among the President’s introductions will be a video message from Sunita Williams, a decorated NASA astronaut and retired Navy Captain.

She recorded a video greeting from the International Space Station (ISS), where she took over as Commander in September, the White House said.

Sunita Williams 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 said.

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, the White House added.

Last year after the Diwali celebration, the US President shared a video of the festivities on microblogging platform X in which he was seen lighting a diya with US First Lady Jill Biden at the White House.

“Today, Jill and I lit the diya to symbolise 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,” he posted.

ALSO READ: Pakistan seeks additional $1.4b loan from China

Previous Story

Construction of Afghanistan’s Kabul-Jalalabad highway begins

Next Story

Human Rights Lawyer Detained in Islamabad, Sparks Accusations of State Fascism

Latest from -Top News

Pakistan’s Drug Crisis Deepens

Described as a “hidden epidemic,” the crisis highlights deep-rooted social, economic, and cultural challenges….reports Asian Lite News According to a recent report, Pakistan is in the grip of a growing drug addiction

Yunus denies revoking Bangabandhu’s honour

Bangladesh interim government rejects claims it revoked freedom fighter status of Bangabandhu and Mujibnagar leaders, affirming their honour and recognising all contributions to the Liberation War. The interim government of Bangladesh, led

India rallies the ‘stans

As New Delhi hosts the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue, growing ties in trade, defence, and diplomacy reaffirm India’s long-standing linkages with the region. India is set to host the fourth meeting of

Capitol Hill calls out Pak terror

Bipartisan support in Washington for India’s right to act, as cross-party Indian delegation highlights Pakistan’s terror links in global outreach In a significant show of solidarity, several US Congressmen have condemned the

Joy turns to tragedy

Eleven fans died and dozens were injured during RCB’s IPL victory parade in Bengaluru, after mismanagement, confusion and a sudden downpour triggered a deadly stampede. What should have been a day of
Go toTop

Don't Miss

2+2 discusses bolstering defence, space ties

Extending multi-national cooperation beyond the Indo-Pacific to Europe was also

Trump’s Gag Order Temporarily Lifted in Fraud Trial

The civil fraud case strikes at the heart of the