Amid the celebration and fervor of Diwali, there is a special occasion to celebrate as US president Barack Obama has wished Indians "a Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak" for this Diwali. In his wishes, he has said that the festival reminded Americans that the US "is home to many faiths and traditions, and that our diversity makes us stronger."
He further added that that's "why I'm proud that this year Democrats and Republicans in Congress joined together for the first-ever celebration of Diwali on Capitol Hill," he said in a statement issued Friday on the observance of Diwali.
Obama said, "For the Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists celebrating Diwali this weekend, the Festival of Lights reaffirms the things in life that matter most. "Dancing, celebration, and good food remind us that life's greatest joys are the simple pleasures that come from spending time with people we love, he added.
Over the last five years, Obama noted, his spouse "Michelle and I have been honoured to have the chance to observe this ancient holiday, both at the White House and in India, and we wish all those celebrating this weekend a Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak."
Like the previous years, the White House will have a Diwali celebration on Tuesday where "the First Lady will provide remarks."
It is noted that Obama has since 2009 kept up the tradition of White House Diwali celebrations started by President George W. Bush in 2003.
Last Tuesday US lawmakers joined Indian-Americans for the first ever Diwali celebrations on Capitol Hill after the US Congress passed resolutions honouring the Indian festival of lights and celebrating the strong relationship between the US and India.
(With inputs from IANS)
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