US leaders join Indian-Americans in Diwali celebrations, light traditional lamps across states

Governors, lawmakers and senior public officials across the United States joined Indian-Americans in celebrating Diwali, lighting traditional oil lamps, visiting temples and extending festive greetings as communities marked the festival of lights.

The celebrations saw participation from leaders across political parties and states, reflecting the growing public recognition of Diwali and the Indian-American community's cultural contributions.

Former US Vice President Kamala Harris extended greetings on the occasion, while Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont joined Diwali celebrations at the state Capitol. California Governor Gavin Newsom also conveyed his wishes through a video message posted on X, highlighting the significance of the festival for the state.


"This is the first year Diwali will be celebrated as a California state holiday," Newsom said.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, dressed in a yellow kurta, participated in the celebrations by lighting a traditional lamp alongside members of the Indian-American community.

In Michigan, Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed joined the festivities with state Speaker-elect Ranjeev Puri.

Several state governors also extended Diwali greetings, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.

Former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard also conveyed her wishes to the Indian-American community.

Federal lawmakers who marked the occasion included Senators Cory Booker, John Cornyn, Andy Kim and Tim Kaine. Members of the House of Representatives, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Brian McCormick and Ami Bera, also extended Diwali greetings.

The celebrations also reached the White House. On Friday, US President Donald Trump hosted a Diwali gathering in the Oval Office, where he lit a traditional lamp in the presence of entrepreneurs, chief executives and other prominent people of Indian origin.

The participation of elected representatives and public officials across the country highlighted Diwali's growing visibility in American public life, with celebrations taking place at state capitols, government offices and community gatherings.

Celebrated by millions across communities, the festival has become an important occasion for Indian-Americans to showcase their cultural traditions and strengthen their connection to their heritage.