The U.S. President Barack Obama has wished well Indians across the globe on the eve of Diwali, the festival of lights. The festival celebrates the victory of righteousness over evil.
“Over the last five years, Michelle and I have been honored to have the chance to observe this ancient holiday, both at the White House and in India, and we wish all those celebrating this weekend a Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak (Happy New Year),” Obama said in a statement issued on the observance of Diwali.
The president said that the festival reminded Americans that their country is “home to many faiths and traditions,” and that it’s this diversity makes America “stronger.”
“The Festival of Lights reaffirms the things in life that matter most. Dancing, celebration, and good food remind us that life’s greatest joys are the simple pleasures that come from spending time with people we love,” he said.
“The flame of the diya, or lamp, reminds us that light will ultimately triumph over darkness.”
The White House has been celebrating Diwali since 2009, keeping up the tradition started by former President George W. Bush. This year the U.S. Congress observed the first-ever celebrations of Diwali on Tuesday at the Capitol Hill.
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