Biden celebrates Diwali at the White House, with a message from Sunita Williams

US President Joe Biden will celebrate Diwali at the White House on Monday evening along with several Indian Americans. Like last year, he and First Lady Jill Biden will open the celebrations by lighting a diya in the Blue Room.

The US President will then address the gathering of Indian Americans, for whom he will host a reception, the White House said. PTI news agency reported.

This will be Biden's last Diwali reception at the White House, as he did withdrew his name from the US presidential election in July this year.

The White House announced that President Biden's introduction will include a video message Sunita Williams, a NASA astronaut and retired Navy captain. Williams recorded her message from the International Space Station, where she took command in September.

Williams, a practicing Hindu, has already sent Diwali greetings from the ISS to people around the world. According to the White House, she also celebrated her heritage in space by bringing with her cultural items such as samosas and copies of the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.

In addition to the Marine Corps Band, musical entertainment will also be provided by Nootana, a Washington-based ensemble that specializes in classical South Asian dance and music.

Last year, President Biden shared a video of the celebration on his official X-handle, where he was able to light a diya with the First Lady of the USA at the White House.

“Today Jill and I lit the diya to symbolize Diwali’s message of seeking the light of wisdom, love and unity over the darkness of hate and division. May we embrace the enduring spirit of this holiday and our nation – and reflect on the strength of our shared light,” he posted on X last year.

(With inputs from PTI)