As part of a cherished annual tradition, President Biden will light a Diwali diya lamp in the White House Blue Room before addressing a gathering of Indian-American guests. The White House has announced that this will be Biden’s last Diwali reception, as he will not seek re-election.
Following the diya lighting, Biden will deliver remarks at a reception honoring the Indian-American community. His speech will include a special video message from Sunita “Suni” Williams, a prominent NASA astronaut and retired Navy Captain, who has recorded her Diwali greetings from the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, who assumed command of the ISS in September, is a practicing Hindu and has celebrated her heritage in space by bringing Indian cultural items, such as samosas and texts like the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita, to honor her roots.
Adding to the cultural festivities, Nootana, a Washington, D.C.-based classical South Asian dance and music group, will perform alongside the Marine Corps Band, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the evening’s celebration.
