President of the United States of America Barack Obama declared a holiday in the US for Diwali to commemorate the festival of lights among Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs who live in the United States of America.
Festival of Lights
In his address to the White House, this is what President Obama had to say:
It is fitting that we begin this week leading up to the holiday of Diwali – the festival of lights, where members of some of the world’s greatest faiths celebrate the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance.
It is a time for rejoicing, but also a time for reflection. To reach out to those in need. In that spirit of celebration and contemplation, I am happy to light the White House diya, and wish you all a happy Diwali and a Saal Mubarak”.
This was followed by a priest chanting shlokas and calling for peace.
We wish you all a happy Diwali!
