Diwali Celebrations Light Up New York’s Times Square
As Diwali approaches, the Indian community in New York is preparing for grand celebrations. At Times Square, a large gathering of the Indian American community marked the festivities. The Consulate General of India in New York shared on social media that the Consul General joined Indian-American and American friends to celebrate Diwali.
Notable Attendees
New York’s Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and Indian-American Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar were among the notable attendees. The event was organized by Neeta Bhasin, a prominent Indian-American community leader.
Celebrations in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the Indian Consulate organized another Diwali event. Deputy Consul General Varun Jeph participated in the celebrations with the Khalsa Asian American Association, alongside members of the Indian diaspora and Asian American community. Mayor Edward Brown and Pennsylvania State Senator Tim Kearny also attended.
Indian Community in the US
There are about 4.4 million people of Indian origin in the US, making them the third largest Asian ethnic group. Indian Americans are highly successful in various fields, including politics, and play a significant role in strengthening India-US relations. New York, San Francisco, and Chicago have the highest Indian populations in the US.
Recognition of Cultural Traditions
In 2023, New York City became the first to declare a public school holiday for Diwali, recognizing its cultural significance. Prime Minister Modi has often referred to the Indian diaspora as a ‘living bridge’ connecting India and the US.
Doubts Revealed
Diwali -: Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India and by Indian communities worldwide. It is known as the Festival of Lights and symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Times Square -: Times Square is a famous area in New York City known for its bright lights, big billboards, and as a major commercial and entertainment hub. It is a popular place for events and celebrations.
Indian American -: Indian Americans are people in the United States who have their roots in India. They are part of the larger Asian American community and contribute significantly to the cultural diversity in the US.
Senate Majority Leader -: The Senate Majority Leader is a powerful position in the US government, responsible for setting the legislative agenda in the Senate. Chuck Schumer is the current Senate Majority Leader.
Mayor Eric Adams -: Eric Adams is the current Mayor of New York City. The mayor is the head of the city government and is responsible for overseeing city services and policies.
Pennsylvania -: Pennsylvania is a state in the United States, located in the northeastern part of the country. It is known for its rich history and diverse culture.
Public school holiday -: A public school holiday means that schools are closed on that day, allowing students and teachers to celebrate or observe the occasion. New York City has made Diwali a public school holiday, recognizing its importance to the community.
