US President Joe Biden hosted the annual Diwali celebration at the White House. More than 600 guests attended the event, including citizens of Indian descent, Congressman Shri Thanedar, US Surgeon General Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy, and the First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Gita Gopinath.
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams sent a recorded video message from space. Also present was Rohit Sharma, a reporter from India Today.
Highlighting the importance of Diwali and diversity in his administration, President Biden expressed his honor in hosting the largest Diwali event at the White House. He appreciated the unity in diversity showcased by many of his key staff members, notably Vice President Kamala Harris and Dr. Murthy.
During the event, India Today's reporter Rohit Sharma engaged with Indian-American attendees, including Shri Thanedar and Gita Gopinath.
Vice President Kamala Harris and First Lady Jill Biden were unable to attend the event. President Biden mentioned that Jill was traveling to Wisconsin, and Harris was busy with her campaign, adding, "Kamala was chosen as my running mate for many reasons. She's smart and dependable."
Biden praised the South Asian American community for enriching every aspect of American life. Recognizing it as one of the fastest-growing communities globally, he noted, "Diwali is now celebrated proudly at the White House."
Lighting the Diya at the White House, Biden reiterated the South Asian American community's immense contributions to the fabric of American society, highlighting their vibrant presence.
Sunita Williams' Message
In her video message, Sunita Williams said she had the incredible opportunity to celebrate Diwali from the International Space Station, 260 miles above Earth. Her father's teachings kept her connected to her roots. She expressed gratitude to the President and Vice President for celebrating Diwali with the community and recognizing their contributions.
History of Diwali Party at the White House
In 2003, then-President George W. Bush initiated the tradition of celebrating Diwali at the White House, though he didn't personally attend the festivities.
Source: aajtak
However, in 2009, Barack Obama, after assuming office, personally attended the Diwali celebration at the White House.
Source: aajtak
In 2017, President Donald Trump continued this tradition. In 2022, President Joe Biden, alongside First Lady Jill Biden, hosted the largest Diwali party at the White House, inviting over 200 guests.
Source: aajtak
Vice President Kamala Harris organized her Diwali celebration at her official residence in 2023.
Source: aajtak
Indian-American communities across the US, from New York to San Francisco, Ohio, New Jersey, and California, celebrated Diwali with enthusiasm. Hindu temples across the nation echoed with chants and large-scale rituals.
