President Joe Biden hosted an exceptional Diwali celebration at the White House on Monday, marking one of the most vibrant festivities, with over 600 Indian American leaders and community members in attendance. Biden expressed the honor he felt in holding such a grand celebration: “Hosting the largest Diwali receptions ever at the White House is more than symbolic—it reflects our commitment to diversity and unity. Diwali is not just a festival of lights; it’s a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. And it’s these principles that form the foundation of our nation’s spirit.”

Biden further acknowledged the essential contributions of the South Asian community, which has been integral to his team across various roles, emphasizing how South Asian Americans represent a core part of the nation’s identity. “From Vice President Kamala Harris to Dr. Vivek Murthy and many others among you today, I am immensely proud that our administration looks like America—diverse, inclusive, and representative of every community that makes this country great,” he said.

In addition to Biden’s address, the evening she featured a heartfelt welcome by Indian American youth activist Shrusti Amula, followed by remarks from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, sending her Diwali greetings from the International Space Station, also reminded the audience of the symbolic reach of Diwali’s light and the contributions of Indian Americans in fields that span beyond borders, even into space.

Reflecting on the journey since the White House’s first Diwali celebration in 2016, Biden noted the achievements and the challenges immigrant communities have faced in America. “When I opened the White House for Diwali in 2016, I believed in celebrating the richness of all faiths—Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, and more. However, just as then, we face renewed shadows of intolerance toward immigrants, including South Asian Americans. But we stand firm in our values,” he said. Biden emphasized the importance of unity and resilience, urging everyone to be “the light for one another in times of darkness.”

The evening culminated in Biden lighting a traditional diya in the Blue Room, symbolizing hope and inclusivity. He recognized the significant role of the South Asian community in shaping the country’s narrative, stating, “Today, as we light the diya, we honor a journey of resilience. From early days of suspicion to now, when Diwali shines brightly in the White House, we see that Diwali has not only become part of America’s fabric but represents our shared journey of strength, inclusivity, and hope.”

President Biden’s Diwali message extended beyond the festival, underscoring America’s promise as a beacon of inclusivity and shared purpose. By hosting one of the largest Diwali celebrations to date, Biden highlighted how deeply the festival’s values resonate with American ideals, celebrating both the cultural significance of Diwali and the contributions of South Asian Americans to the nation’s continued journey toward unity and light.