As the festival of lights approaches, Indian-American communities across the United States have begun celebrating Diwali with grandeur, including a prominent event at New York’s Times Square.
The celebration, organized by Indian-American community leader Neeta Bhasin, saw the participation of influential figures like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and Indian-American Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar.
The Consulate General of India in New York shared the event on social media, emphasizing the collaboration between the Indian-American community and their American counterparts. “Diwali @TimesSquare: Indian American Community & American Friends join together at Times Square to celebrate Diwali,” the consulate stated in a post on X, highlighting the significance of this cultural convergence.
Consul General Binaya Pradhan also took part in the celebration, joining members of both the Indian-American community and their American friends. The event underscored the growing importance of Diwali as a cultural moment in the United States, reflecting the Indian diaspora's contributions across various sectors.
Deputy Consul General @varunjeph joined the Diwali celebrations by Khalsa Asian American Association in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania along with members of the Indian diaspora and Asian American community.
— India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) October 20, 2024
Thank you @UpperDarbyPA Mayor Ed Brown and PA State Senator Tim Kearny… pic.twitter.com/6LzwVJ3FR1
Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, the Khalsa Asian American Association hosted another Diwali event, attended by Deputy Consul General Varun Jeph. The celebration in Upper Darby featured appearances from local leaders such as Mayor Edward Brown and Pennsylvania State Senator Tim Kearny. The Indian Consulate in Pennsylvania expressed its gratitude on social media, saying, “Thank you @UpperDarbyPA Mayor Ed Brown and PA State Senator Tim Kearny @SenTimKearney for joining the celebrations and for your support to the Indian American community & fostering India-US ties.”
With an Indian-origin population of approximately 4.4 million, the Indian-American community remains one of the most successful immigrant groups in the country, excelling in various fields including politics. Their efforts have been instrumental in promoting stronger bilateral ties between the U.S. and India.
The growing recognition of Diwali’s cultural importance is also evident in New York’s recent decision to declare the festival a public holiday in all city schools, marking a significant milestone in acknowledging the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
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