The building displayed ‘diyas’ as the US celebrated Diwali….reports Asian Lite News
The One World Trade Center in New York which is the tallest building in the US, on Wednesday lit up in colours in the occasion of Diwali.
The building displayed ‘diyas’ as the US celebrated Diwali.
In a post on X, the Consulate General of India in New York stated, “Shubharambh of Diwali with the tallest building in the USA, One World Trade Center lighting up in radiant colors! Here’s to a festival of lights that shines across the globe!”
Earlier in the day, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti danced to the popular song “Tauba Tauba” during Diwali celebrations at the US Embassy in Delhi.
He performed Bhangra on stage to the hit song from the Vicky Kaushal-starrer movie Bad Newz. Garcetti wore a brown kurta, cool shades, a red dupatta, and taupe shoes to complete his festive look.
He shared his excitement by posting an image of the embassy adorned with golden lights for Diwali. “Our Embassy is lit up and we are all set for Diwali. How are you celebrating the Festival of Lights?” he asked.
The White House also sent Diwali wishes in its statement: “Happy Diwali from the White House! Together, may we show the power in the gathering of light.” Garcetti expressed his excitement about the Diwali celebrations hosted by President Biden on Monday.
In a post on X, he said, “What a beautiful celebration of Diwali at the White House! As we celebrate the journey of light, we also honor the invaluable contributions of Indian Americans who deepen the US-India bond. From New Delhi to DC, may the light of Diwali illuminate every corner of the world and spread the message of peace and prosperity.”
The White House hosted a Diwali celebration, honouring Indian Americans’ contributions to the “US-India bond.” Recently, First Lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden hosted a Diwali celebration at the White House on October 28, inviting Indian Americans from across the United States to attend.
Schools in New York to be closed on Diwali
In a historic move, Diwali will be celebrated as an official school holiday in New York City, enabling over 1.1 million students to observe the festival of lights.
Diwali has been declared a school holiday for New York City public schools beginning this year. Last year, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation making Diwali a school holiday for the city’s public schools. New York City schools will remain closed on November 1 in celebration of Diwali.
Deputy Commissioner for New York City’s Mayor’s Office for International Affairs Dilip Chauhan said Diwali being celebrated as an official school holiday in New York City for the first time is a “milestone that celebrates our city’s diversity and the tireless efforts of our community and leaders”. “With 1.1 million students now able to observe this day, Diwali becomes a true symbol of unity—a celebration of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance,” Chauhan said.
He said that for the diaspora, this holiday holds deep meaning, bringing families, friends, and neighbours together in peace and joy, strengthening the bonds that make New York one of the world’s most inclusive cities. “Of course, there were challenges, especially balancing the required instructional days. We had to make thoughtful adjustments to ensure all communities felt respected and supported,” he said.
Underscoring that Diwali “reminds us of the unique diversity” in the city, Chauhan said the festival “speaks to our shared values of harmony and connection. This holiday unites us, fostering a stronger, more inclusive city — a city that thrives on every voice.” Diwali celebrations have begun across the city and country with several community organisations commemorating the festival through special events.
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Canadian Hindu organisations dismayed
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Meanwhile, Hindu’s in Canada are aggrieved after Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre had chosen to cancel the 2024 Diwali celebrations.
The Hindu Forum on Canda says that the move sends a clear message of exclusion to the community.
“A move that sends a clear message of exclusion to a community deeply woven into Canada’s cultural fabric. Diwali, a festival symbolizing light and unity, is celebrated worldwide, with leaders like U.S. President Biden and astronaut Sunita Williams honoring it with great respect. Yet, CPC leader Pierre Poilievre has shown a concerning disregard for Canadian Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains. This decision is a politically motivated act of appeasement that dismisses a significant, vibrant part of Canadian society,” a statement from the Hindu Forum said.
“Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains in Canada–nearly 2.5 million strong–are rapidly growing communities that have made meaningful contributions across fields, from science to education. Mutual respect among communities is what strengthens Canada, but it seems CPC leadership does not uphold this principle when it comes to these communities. It’s crucial for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains to stand united against decisions that show a lack of respect for our culture and beliefs. In the upcoming federal elections, let’s choose wisely. Pierre Poilievre is not yet Prime Minister, yet his true colors of appeasement politics show through by canceling Diwali celebrations. If he were to become Prime Minister, what further tactics might he use? Our votes should go to leaders who genuinely respect and stand by all Canadians, and we must make our voices heard. This Diwali, let’s stand together for representation, respect, and true inclusivity,” the statement said.
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