New York City radiated with the vibrant glow of Diwali as the iconic Empire State Building illuminated the night sky in enchanting orange hues. Mayor Eric Adams, accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, joined the ‘festival of lights’ festivities at the Bhakti Center, Manhattan’s oldest Hindu temple.
Chauhan commended the historic decision to observe Diwali as a public school holiday in NYC, attributing this achievement to years of dedicated advocacy by the Indian diaspora. He said, “This year, Diwali is particularly significant. For the first time in the history of New York City, Mayor Eric Adams has declared Diwali as a public holiday in the schools, thanks to years of advocacy by the Indian diaspora and the Indian-American community. Our children can now spend this special day with their families, visit religious places, and celebrate with the community.”
The radiant display on the iconic building was achieved through collaboration with the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), casting an even brighter light on the Diwali celebration within the Hindu community at the Bhakti Center, where more than 1,500 people gathered. Mayor Adams extended a warm welcome, inviting everyone to explore the temple’s beauty throughout the year. “Happy Diwali! It was a beautiful experience here, and I welcome anyone not only during Diwali but any time of the year. Come here and renew your energy,” he said.
With traditional attire, rangolis, and vibrant lights, the US Embassy in India, too, led by Ambassador Eric Garcetti, immersed itself in Diwali celebrations. Garcetti expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you to the entire US Embassy community here in New Delhi. You make life full of light every single day.”
New York State Senator Kevin Thomas shared the stage with Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, during their Diwali celebrations. Senator Thomas expressed his honor on social media, posting, “It was an honor to celebrate Diwali with VP Kamala Harris in D.C. tonight. May your Diwali be free from darkness and abundant with light. Happy Diwali!!”
Vice President Harris acknowledged the global challenges at the celebration, underscoring the festival’s significance in fostering understanding and celebrating light amid difficulties. “We celebrate Diwali at a time when there is a lot happening in the world,” she remarked.
(Inputs from ANI)