Diwali in LA: Los Angeles City hosts festival of lights; cultural performances mark celebration for first time

This year, Los Angeles City Hall marked Diwali with a special celebration, hosted by the City Council in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Los Angeles. The event was organized by Nithya Raman, the first Indian American City Councilmember, highlighting the growing recognition of the Indian diaspora in the region.The celebration was attended by Eric Garcetti, former Mayor of Los Angeles and current US Ambassador to India, alongside leaders of the Indian diaspora and community members from across the region.Festivities included the lighting of traditional lamps, performances of Indian music and dance, and the presentation of a Diwali Proclamation by City Council members Nithya Raman, John Lee, and Tim McOsker.The council members also welcomed the new Consul General, K J Srinivasa, during the event.The Indian Consulate thanked the City of Los Angeles for its gesture of friendship and for acknowledging the contributions of the Indo-American community to the city’s multicultural fabric. Diwali celebrations also took place in Washington, where US President Donald Trump participated in festivities at the White House on Tuesday. He conveyed greetings to the people of India and Indian-Americans, linking the national recognition of the festival to US-India relations.

"Let me extend our warmest wishes to the people of India. I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. Had a great conversation. We talked about trade... He's very interested in that. Although we did talk a little while ago about let's have no wars with Pakistan. The fact that trade was involved, I was able to talk about that. And we have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing. He's a great person, and he's become a great friend of mine over the years," Trump said.Trump highlighted the symbolic significance of Diwali, noting that lighting the diya represents the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. He said the flame serves as a reminder to seek wisdom, work diligently, and give thanks for blessings. Following his remarks, Trump lit diyas at the White House.The ceremony was attended by senior administration officials, including FBI Director Kash Patel, ODNI Director Tulsi Gabbard, White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai, the Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra, the US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and a delegation of Indian-American business leaders.