Politicians and celebrities send wishes

DOZENS of elected representatives in the US greeted Indian Americans on Diwali, with many of them joining their constituents in celebrating the festival of lights.

“Light will always overcome darkness,” tweeted Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, home to the largest Indian-American population in the US. “Today, we celebrate the power of hope over despair. Happy Diwali to all those celebrating!” he said.

“Happy Diwali to all who celebrate. While celebrating will be different this year, I hope this holiday brings you light, joy and peace,” said New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Congressman Andy Levin recalled his Diwali celebrations in Sarnath as a college students. “I’ll never forget the Diwali celebration I enjoyed while living in Sarnath in India’s Utter Pradesh state as a college student. Everyone who could afford to bought and put on a new outfit and went out visiting, sharing mithai (delicious sweets) all around. Happy Diwali!” he said.

There were greetings from celebrities and other politicians too.

“Happy Diwali! Sparkles This festival of lights celebrates new beginnings, the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This year it feels even more meaningful. Happy Diwali,” tweeted IndianAmerican actress and comedian Mindy Kaling last Saturday (14), in an apparent reference to the historic win of Kamala Harris.

Nikki Haley, a former US Ambassador to the UN, said, “Happy Diwali and celebration of the Festival of Lights to our Indian brothers and sisters. May this next year be a victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”