On Monday evening, President Joe Biden will celebrate Diwali at the White House, welcoming a vibrant group of Indian Americans from all over the United States. This event, deeply symbolic and meaningful for millions celebrating around the world, highlights the cultural richness and diversity that Diwali embodies. The White House has noted that the evening will open with a special tradition: the President will light a Diya lamp in the historic Blue Room before delivering his remarks.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, represents the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Observed by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists worldwide, this annual celebration holds significant meaning for Indian Americans. This year, the White House’s Diwali celebration has added importance, as it is set to be President Biden’s last Diwali reception in office due to his decision not to run for re-election.
The tradition of lighting a Diya in the White House has grown over the years as part of an effort to acknowledge the importance of Diwali to the Indian American community and beyond. It also marks an inclusive acknowledgment of how diverse cultural traditions have become an essential part of the American story. The President’s participation in Diwali festivities speaks to this recognition and is an opportunity to honor the values of unity, resilience, and hope that Diwali represents.
Following the Diya lighting, President Biden will address an audience of Indian American leaders, innovators, and cultural representatives gathered for the evening’s reception. This group includes people who have made significant contributions to American society across various fields, including technology, medicine, politics, and the arts. The gathering not only celebrates the individuals present but also highlights the role of the Indian American community in the U.S., a community that has grown significantly in recent decades and has contributed to shaping American society in countless ways.
The White House also revealed that the event will include a video message from Sunita “Suni” Williams, a highly esteemed NASA astronaut and retired Navy Captain, who has made her mark both on Earth and in space. Williams, who has taken the role of Commander on the International Space Station, recorded a Diwali greeting from space, underscoring the truly global reach of this festival. Known for proudly carrying her heritage into her work, Williams is a practicing Hindu and has previously celebrated Diwali while orbiting Earth. On past missions, she brought traditional items to space, including samosas, copies of the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, connecting her Indian heritage to her groundbreaking career.
This symbolic message from space, delivered by a figure of such remarkable achievements, emphasizes the far-reaching impact of Indian culture, which continues to inspire individuals around the globe. Williams’ greeting represents a profound blend of tradition and progress, mirroring the modern spirit of Diwali.
Entertainment for the evening will include a performance by Nootana, a Washington, DC-based classical South Asian dance and music ensemble. The group specializes in showcasing South Asian music and dance traditions, helping to preserve and share the richness of these art forms with American audiences. Nootana’s performances are known for blending classical South Asian dance forms with innovative choreography, allowing for a unique cultural experience that appeals to diverse audiences. Their performance will offer guests a cultural journey through traditional South Asian sounds and movements, enhancing the celebration with an authentic and immersive experience.
Adding to the evening’s ambiance, the United States Marine Corps Band will also perform, bridging American tradition with Diwali festivities. This fusion of musical traditions mirrors the merging of cultures that Diwali in the White House represents, honoring the shared values and connections between India and the United States. Through music, dance, and tradition, the celebration embodies a spirit of unity and cultural appreciation, offering guests an experience that both celebrates and educates.
This year’s Diwali reception reflects a commitment to honoring the diversity of American society and recognizing the contributions of Indian Americans. President Biden’s final Diwali in office marks a meaningful occasion, demonstrating the White House’s acknowledgment of Diwali’s importance, both as a cultural celebration and a time for reflection on shared values. By opening the White House doors for this annual celebration, the administration sends a powerful message of inclusivity, unity, and respect for the varied cultural fabric that strengthens American society.
In bringing together leaders from the Indian American community, sharing traditional music and dance, and hearing from a pioneering figure like Sunita Williams, the White House’s Diwali celebration offers an inspiring reminder of the common aspirations and hopes shared across communities. This year’s Diwali reception stands not only as a celebration of heritage but also as a statement on the enduring values that connect people, regardless of background or nationality.
