Andre Dickens, the Mayor of Atlanta hosted his first Diwali celebrations, sponsored by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA). The gathering marked the culmination of various Hindu Heritage Month Celebrations in the State, following Governor Kemp’s proclamation.
The event was attended by the Consul general of India, L Ramesh Babu and other local leaders, including State Representatives Solomon Adesanya and Mesha Mainor, Cobb County Commissioner Jerica Richardson and former City Council President, Felicia Moore.
Mayor Dickens lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Appreciating the significance of the Indian American community, Mayor Dickens, said, “It is undeniable that Atlanta is stronger and better thanks to the many international communities that we have here and that individuals have made Atlanta their home. The South Asian and Indian communities make an incredible impact on Atlanta’s culture, and Atlanta’s economy."
During the event, the Mayor highlighted the economic contributions that Indian entrepreneurs have made to Atlanta. Thanking the Mayor for hosting the event, Consul General Babu highlighted the close ties between the two countries and said their basis was the "vibrant people-to-people contact."
“We all know that India and the United States enjoy a comprehensive global strategic partnership covering almost all areas of cooperation in human endeavor. So, it is driven by shared democratic values between India and USA and convergence of all the issues," he said and further went on to describe Diwali as an occasion to strengthen the contact between the various cultures that enrich Atlanta.
CoHNA vice president Rajeev Menon thanked the Mayor and the Consul General. “We expect to continue to build on this relationship going forward to forge stronger ties with the political leaders and the Hindu American diaspora," Menon said.
CoHNA board member Suresh Krishnamoorthy, said, “For the first time, we have recognition of an important festival for Hindu Americans from the Mayor of Atlanta. CoHNA plans to continue the outreach to political leadership in the Atlanta area and advocate for Hindu American causes.”
Comments
Tara Chand
2023-11-11 00:00:00
Great initiative by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) for this wonderful Diwali celebration. Mayor Andre Dickens's support and appreciation for the Hindu community is commendable. This represents the true spirit of Hindu Heritage Month for cultural awareness.