Empire State Building lit up in orange to mark Indian festival of lights.
The iconic Empire State Building in Manhattan was lit up in the orange light of ‘diya’ flame as several politicians sent Diwali greetings to the Indian American community with many joining in the festivities.
The famous monument was lit up in partnership with the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), the largest non-profit umbrella organization of the Indian community in the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut in a special ceremony on Friday.
The iconic tower was lit up for Diwali for the first time in 2018.
Meanwhile, besides President-elect Joe Biden, Vice President elect Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump, several US political leaders sent Diwali greetings to the Indian American community.
“Light will always overcome darkness,” tweeted Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, home to the largest Indian American population in the US.
READ: Trump greets Indians on Diwali, a festival that ushers in new beginnings (November 15, 2020)
“Today, we celebrate the power of hope over despair. Happy Diwali to all those celebrating!” he wrote.
“Happy Diwali to all who celebrate. While celebrating will be different this year, I hope this holiday brings you light, joy and peace,” stated New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.
“Happy Diwali to all those celebrating the Festival of Lights around the world and in the great State of Texas,” tweeted Governor Greg Abbott of Texas.
“Wishing a Happy Diwali to all those observing! On this festival of lights, may you and your families be blessed with the glow of joy and prosperity to last through the year,” wrote Delaware Senator Chris Coons.
“Wishing a happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights in New York, across America, and around the world, and Saal Mubarak to everyone ringing in the New Year!” said Senate Minority Leader Senator Chuck Schumer.
READ: Joe Biden, Kamala Harris extend Diwali greetings, look forward to celebrating festival of lights at White House next year (November 15, 2020)
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee also sent out its Diwali greetings.
‘“To all those celebrating Diwali this week, I wish you and your family a joyful and blessed Festival of Lights! Diwali2020,” wrote Jim Risch, Chairman, Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
“Joining millions in New Jersey and around the world lighting lamps today as we celebrate #Diwali. These tiny flames illuminate the darkness and symbolize our common pursuit of light, knowledge and goodness. Sending my warmest wishes for a safe and happy holiday,” added Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
“Wishing a happy Diwali to all those celebrating the Festival of Lights in Pennsylvania and around the world today. As we take a moment to celebrate the light and joy in our communities, may we continue to give light to a more just and peaceful world,” wrote Senator Bob Casey.
“Happy Diwali to all those celebrating the Festival of Lights today! Wishing you a joyous and prosperous holiday,” said Senator Tammy Duckworth.
Senator Ted Cruz also sent his Diwali greetings to Indians and all Indo American friends in Texas.
READ MORE:
Indian Americans in Sacramento celebrate Diwali with car parade (November 16, 2020)
President Trump lights Diwali ‘diya’ in White House for third consecutive year (October 27, 2019)
For the first time, Diwali is celebrated at Washington Dulles International Airport (October 26, 2019)
Trump hosts Diwali at White House for second year in a row (November 14, 2018)
President Trump celebrates Diwali by lighting ‘diya’ in Oval Office (October 18, 2017)
Ivanka Trump wishes Diwali to all Indians across the world (October 19, 2017)
Barack Obama makes his final Diwali at the White House special, lights diya in Oval Office (October 31, 2016)
US lawmakers greeted by overflow crowd of Indian Americans at Diwali celebration on Capitol Hill (November 17, 2018)
Fourth sparkling Diwali celebration in US Congress draws over 400 guests (November 9, 2017)