US President Joe Biden celebrated Diwali with a grand event at the White House on Monday, honoring the South Asian American community’s contributions and extending his greetings to all Americans. The gathering, attended by over 600 prominent Indian Americans—including members of Congress, government officials, and corporate leaders—highlighted Diwali’s growing importance in American culture.
The event was marked by vibrant colors, traditional performances, and the lighting of the ceremonial diya in the White House’s Blue Room. Biden praised the South Asian American community as “the fastest-growing and most engaged community in the world,” emphasizing its impact on American life. “Diwali is now celebrated openly and proudly in the White House,” he said.
In his address, Biden reflected on America’s journey towards unity, noting that its democracy thrives on diversity. “This is not my house; this is your house,” he said, acknowledging the country’s tradition of debate and dissent, while honoring the shared values that bind it together.
The White House Diwali tradition began with President George W. Bush in 2003, followed by President Barack Obama, who famously lit a diya in the Oval Office. Biden himself hosted a Diwali reception as Vice President in 2016, and President Donald Trump continued the celebration in 2017.
This year’s event also featured remarks from US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and a recorded message from retired NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, speaking from the International Space Station.
In his closing remarks, Biden highlighted his commitment to diversity, sharing his pride in hosting one of the largest Diwali celebrations at the White House. He acknowledged his administration’s representation of America’s diversity, with figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and Dr. Vivek Murthy playing key roles. Lighting the diya, Biden emphasized Diwali’s theme of light and resilience: “In America, everything runs deep, especially the courage to serve, to heal, and to dare to dream.”