US secretary of state Antony Blinken turned to the words of Rabindranath Tagore at the state department’s annual Diwali reception on Friday, remarking that the Bengali poet’s words embody the spirit of the festival that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness.
Blinken said, “Diwali holds different meanings and practices for different communities. But Bengali poet Tagore captured it the best when he wrote ‘Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark.’ Diwali is about the idea that light will push back against darkness.”
“A decade later, this annual gathering has become a tradition, one I am very proud of and pleased to continue,” Blinken said, noting the vast global celebrations with over a billion Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs marking Diwali with vibrant decorations, rangoli, and the lighting of diyas.
Blinken commemorated a decade of celebrating the festival of lights within the department, a tradition first introduced by then-secretary John Kerry.
Addressing the gathering on Friday, Blinken expressed pride in continuing the annual celebration and highlighted Diwali’s universal message of hope and resilience.
Blinken also celebrated the profound contributions of Americans of South Asian descent, highlighting how they have enriched the cultural and social fabric of the United States. “Diwali is a reminder of the many ways South Asian culture—and Americans of South Asian descent—have strengthened our nation,” he said, naming prominent figures like vice president Kamala Harris, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma. Blinken remarked to an audience that included members of the diplomatic community and Indian-Americans.
Blinken concluded his address with a message of unity, calling for continued efforts toward a peaceful and prosperous world. “So as we celebrate Diwali, may we keep working to shape a world more peaceful, more prosperous, and do it together. Happy Diwali,” he wished.
Diwali, celebrated with lights, firecrackers, sweets, and gifts, remains a significant cultural event that underscores the victory of good over evil.
President Joe Biden and vice president Harris joined the festivities, underscoring the cultural and spiritual significance of Diwali for millions across the United States.
In a message shared on X, President Biden said, “This Diwali, may we show the power in the gathering of light. The light of knowledge, of unity, of truth. The light for freedom, for democracy, for an America where anything is possible.”
Earlier this week, he hosted a record-breaking Diwali event at the White House, inviting around 600 prominent Indian-Americans from across the country.