US Ambassador Eric Garcetti Celebrates Durga Puja
US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, extended his greetings on the occasion of Durga Puja, highlighting the strength and achievements of Indian women. In a video message, he described the festival as a time to celebrate women’s courage and tenacity. Garcetti emphasized the importance of supporting women and girls in achieving their dreams, calling them “dreamers and doers” who are leading change in various fields.
Empowering Women and Girls
Garcetti stressed the need to provide women and girls with the tools for success, encouraging their participation in education, entrepreneurship, and the workforce. He described women and girls as “powerhouses” for India and the world, advocating for their continued empowerment.
Celebrating Diversity and Religious Freedom
The Ambassador expressed his admiration for the “bright and joyful spirit” of Durga Puja, reaffirming his commitment to promoting religious freedom and dignity for all. Durga Puja, a festival honoring the Hindu goddess Durga, is celebrated for its cultural significance and the values of compassion and humanity it represents.
About Durga Puja
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava, celebrates the victory of goddess Durga over Mahishasur. It is a time of joy, marked by music, new clothes, and delicious food. The festival is part of the larger Navratri celebration, where devotees worship different incarnations of the goddess over nine days, seeking her blessings for a prosperous life.
Doubts Revealed
US Ambassador -: A US Ambassador is a person who represents the United States in another country. In this case, Eric Garcetti is the US Ambassador to India, meaning he works to maintain good relations between the US and India.
Eric Garcetti -: Eric Garcetti is a person who is currently serving as the US Ambassador to India. Before this, he was the Mayor of Los Angeles, a big city in the United States.
Durga Puja -: Durga Puja is a Hindu festival celebrated in India, especially in West Bengal. It honors the goddess Durga and celebrates her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Dreamers and doers -: When someone is called a ‘dreamer and doer,’ it means they have big ideas (dreams) and also take action to make those ideas happen (doers). Eric Garcetti used this term to praise Indian women for their achievements.
Religious freedom -: Religious freedom means that people have the right to practice any religion they choose, or no religion at all, without being discriminated against. It is an important value in many countries, including India and the US.
Cultural significance -: Cultural significance refers to the importance of something within a culture. Durga Puja has cultural significance in India as it is a major festival that brings people together to celebrate traditions and beliefs.
