During a Diwali reception at the State Department, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken underscored the festival’s significance and reflected on the decade-long tradition of celebrating Diwali at the State Department, a practice initiated by Secretary John Kerry.
Addressing the reception on Friday, Blinken stated, “It was 10 years ago that Secretary John Kerry hosted the first Diwali reception here at the State Department. A decade later, this annual gathering has become a tradition, one I am very proud of and pleased to continue. This year, more than one billion Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs, from around the world are celebrating Diwali and decorating homes in vibrant patterns, rangoli, hanging garlands of flowers, lighting diyas.”
Blinken further captured the essence of Diwali by quoting Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore: “Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark,” and added, “Diwali holds different meanings and practices for different communities. But Bengali poet Tagore captured it the best when he wrote ‘Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark.’ Diwali is about the idea that light will push back against darkness.”
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He emphasized the impact of South Asian culture in the United States, noting that the country’s diversity is a source of strength, enriched by contributions from South Asian Americans. “It’s also a reminder of many ways of South Asian culture. The United States derives so much strength from this diversity, including the truly remarkable public service… The Vice President of United States Kamala Harris, World Bank President Ajay Banga, our very own Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma.”
Blinken concluded with a heartfelt wish, saying, “So as we celebrate Diwali, may we keep working to shape a world more peaceful, more prosperous and do it together. Happy Diwali.”
Diwali is an auspicious festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, celebrated with dazzling lights, firecrackers, traditional sweets, and the exchange of gifts.
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