Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a Diwali event at the White House on Wednesday, November 8. Several influential personalities from the Indian and South Asian communities came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights with great enthusiasm. It was a grand celebration with colorful decorations, sumptuous ethnic cuisine and traditional music. Just outside Harris’ office doors, a colorful rangoli adorned with diyas or lamps can be seen in photos obtained by Hindustantimes.com through celebrity publicist Jonathan Hay.
During his welcome speech, Harris highlighted the importance of celebrating Diwali and explained how its meaning, the victory of light over darkness, holds such strong significance during the current crisis across the world. “This year, we are celebrating Diwali at a time when there is a lot going on in our world,” the Vice President said. Besides Harris, other special guests also delivered speech on the occasion. Among the eminent personalities who attended the event were Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, Bela Bajaria, CCO of Netflix, US Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, US Representative Pooja Bavishi and Miss USA Nina Davaluri.
The event featured traditional Indian cuisine including delicious dishes like Malai ice cream, bhel, prawns and samosa accompanied by cocktails and drinks including India’s most famous hot drink, chai or chai tea. Lively music and dance performances maintained the festive atmosphere throughout the event. In addition to a DJ, the Diwali event at the White House also included a Tabla performance. Other notable guests who graced the auspicious occasion included ABC news anchor Zohreen Shah, American actress and writer Sheetal Sheth and entrepreneur Anip Patel, who discussed the Gaza crisis with the Vice President.
Patel said in his message: “As we gather here to celebrate the Festival of Lights, Diwali, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, it is a poignant time to reflect on the values it represents. One of the central messages of Diwali is the search for peace, harmony and understanding among all people, regardless of their differences. He added: “I sincerely appeal to you, Vice President Harris, to use your position of influence and advocate for a ceasefire, promoting an end to all forms of violence or attacks.” against individuals, regardless of their origins or beliefs. »