Diwali celebrations held at Capitol Hill following the recent presidential election in the United States

Diwali celebrated at Capitol Hill

Washington, D.C. (USA) – Following last week’s presidential election, a large Diwali celebration was held in the United States on November 13^th. Over 14 U.S. lawmakers, along with prominent Indian- Americans, gathered at Capitol Hill to celebrate the Festival of Lights. This event highlighted the cultural significance of Diwali and recognized the contributions of the Indian-American community in the U.S.

1. Diwali on Capitol Hill has become an annual tradition. This year, the celebration was organized by the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in partnership with the Hindu American Foundation, Sikhs for America, Jain Association of North America, Art of Living, and other Indian-American organizations.

2. U.S. Congressman Dan Meuser shared a photo on X, expressing his pleasure in joining the Shri Swaminarayan Temple and Indian-American organizations for the Diwali and Hindu New Year celebrations on Capitol Hill. He highlighted that Diwali, celebrated by over a billion people, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and embodies values of faith, family, and community.

3. Senator Rand Paul remarked on the diversity Diwali represents, emphasizing America’s strength as a nation of immigrants that attracts talented individuals from around the world.

It was a pleasure to join BAPs and a host of Indian-American organizations on Capitol Hill tonight to celebrate Diwali and the Hindu New Year. Celebrated by over a billion people, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and promotes values of faith, family, and community. pic.twitter.com/JqLcdZpkMS

— Congressman Dan Meuser (@RepMeuser) November 14, 2024

4. Mississippi Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith extended Diwali wishes to Indian-Americans, expressing her hopes for the country’s prosperity over the next 4 years. She emphasized the need for a stable environment, a stronger economy, and support for families.

5. India’s Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Mohan Kwatra, noted that Diwali is celebrated globally, and the participation of many U.S. lawmakers in this event reflects their respect for the festival.

6. Re-elected Michigan Congressman Shri Thanedar highlighted the creation of the first Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist caucus in the U.S. Congress during his first term. He also mentioned his collaboration with the State Department to address attacks on Hindu temples in the U.S. and violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

7. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi emphasized that Indian Americans are the fastest-growing minority in the U.S., also the most educated and affluent, noting that 1 in every 7 doctors in the U.S. is of Indian origin.