Not only India, but also several other countries celebrate Diwali with much pomp and pleasure. US President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr Jill Biden on Monday hosted a Diwali reception at the White House in what they called the largest since the People’s House started celebrating the festival during the George Bush administration.
US Vice President Kamala Harris was also seen celebrating Diwali with holding a sparking ‘Phuljhadi’ and sharing waves of laughter with Indian origin people at the event.
During the reception to commemorate Diwali at the White House, Biden said, “We are honoured to host you. This is the first Diwali reception of this scale in the White House ever to be held”, ANI reported.
The US President further noted, “We have more Asian Americans than ever in history and we want to thank you for making the Diwali celebration a joyous part of American culture”.
Taking to Twitter, Biden also extended his Diwali wishes by saying, “This Diwali, may we remember that from the darkness there is power in the gathering of light. That the American story depends not on any one of us, but on all of us.”
According to the PTI report, the East Room hosted the reception for more than 200 prominent Indian Americans. Notably, the location has hosted significant occasions in the history of India-US relations, such as the signing of the nuclear agreement and the press conference held by then-US President Barack Obama and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in November 2008.
The Sa Dance Company and sitarist Rishab Sharma both gave captivating cultural performances throughout the reception. The visitors enjoyed some delicious Indian cuisine while dressed in traditional Indian attire.