The One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the US, was recently lit up with colourful lights to celebrate the festival of Diwali. This is the first time in the history of New York City that schools will be closed on November 1 for the holiday. In addition, US President Joe Biden also celebrated Diwali at the White House with over 600 Indian Americans in attendance.
Celebrating the Festival of Lights: Diwali Illuminates the World's Landmarks
Diwali, the vibrant festival of lights celebrated in India and by South Asian communities worldwide, has transcended geographical boundaries, captivating the attention of major landmarks and societies. In recent years, the festival has witnessed unprecedented global recognition, with iconic buildings adorned with dazzling light displays and cities declaring official holidays to honor the occasion.
New York City's Diwali Milestone
Among the most notable milestones in the global celebration of Diwali was the illumination of the One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the United States. This unprecedented spectacle marked a historic moment for New York City, as schools closed on November 1 for the first time to celebrate the festival.
White House Diwali Celebration
In Washington, D.C., President Joe Biden welcomed over 600 Indian Americans to the White House for a Diwali celebration. The event showcased traditional Indian dance performances, music, and cuisine, reflecting the cultural diversity embraced by the United States.
Top 5 FAQs on Diwali Celebration
What is the significance of Diwali? Diwali celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. It is a time for families to gather, exchange gifts, and enjoy fireworks.
Why is Diwali celebrated in the United States? The United States is home to a large South Asian population, including many Indians. Diwali is celebrated as a way for these communities to connect with their culture and share their traditions with others.
How is Diwali celebrated in the workplace? Many employers in the United States now offer Diwali-related benefits to their South Asian employees, such as paid time off or special events.
What are some of the most popular Diwali activities? Popular Diwali activities include lighting diyas (oil lamps), decorating homes with rangolis (colored designs), and watching fireworks.
What is the future of Diwali celebrations? Diwali is becoming increasingly popular around the world, and it is likely that we will see even more spectacular celebrations in the years to come.
Conclusion
The global celebration of Diwali is a testament to the festival's universal message of light and hope. Whether it is illuminating iconic landmarks or inspiring government recognition, Diwali has become a symbol of cultural unity and shared values. As the festival continues to gain momentum worldwide, it is essential to embrace its message and foster a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Just days before the festival of lights, Delhi-NCR was brought to a standstill as severe traffic congestion struck the region. The festive rush, combined with ongoing roadwork and market zones bustling with Diwali shoppers, resulted in major delays and gridlock across the city. In response, the Delhi Traffic Police issued a strong advisory and took several measures to handle the traffic overload and prioritize safety. As the weekend and Diwali shopping continue, commuters are reminded to plan their journeys carefully to avoid getting stuck in the chaos.
As festive celebrations pick up pace in the national capital, Delhi Traffic Police is urging people to plan their travel in advance due to widespread traffic disruptions. Ongoing road repairs and broken sewer lines have added to the traffic woes, prompting the police to cancel leaves and deploy personnel to handle the growing Diwali rush. Many major intersections have experienced bottlenecks, and motorists are advised to follow diversion routes and check live updates before stepping out.
Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. This year, Diwali falls on October 20, with Lakshmi Puja being the main ritual dedicated to Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The Amavasya Tithi, which marks the new moon, is considered the most auspicious time for the Puja and falls between 3.44 pm on October 20 and 5.54 pm on October 21. Diwali is celebrated across India and in many countries with Indian-origin communities, with families coming together to light diyas, offer prayers, and prepare sweets and offerings for the goddess. Different cities have their own auspicious timings for the Puja, with Delhi's Pradosh Kaal being the most significant.
Union minister Nitin Gadkari faced accusations of conflict of interest from the ethanol blending policy, with allegations that his sons' company was benefiting financially. However, Gadkari has vehemently denied these claims, stating that the production of ethanol only accounted for less than 0.5% of his sons' company's supply. He adds that his efforts to promote alternative, cleaner fuels are to address the country's high fuel import costs and reduce pollution. The minister also criticizes the Congress' claims, calling them baseless and an attempt to discredit the government's policies.
A devoted fan of the Loch Ness Monster, Eoin O Faodhagain, has captured footage of a potential sighting on the Visit Inverness Loch Ness webcam. The video shows what appears to be a long, anaconda-like neck emerging from the water, which Mr O Faodhagain describes as being "thick as a man's thigh". This isn't the first time he has spotted something unusual on the webcam, as he claims a recent sighting is very similar to one he had earlier this year. He also shared pictures from a September sighting that showed two humps in the water.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 31,000 for its employees for Diwali. This applies to all eligible BMC officers, teachers, and staff of private primary and secondary schools, as well as shikshan sevaks and employees of teacher training institutes. In addition, community health volunteers will receive a special gift of Rs 14,000 and kindergarten teachers and helpers will receive Rs 5,000. Maharashtra's Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers have also extended Diwali greetings to all BMC officers and employees.
A 15-year-old boy tragically died after being electrocuted at a parking area designated for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting in Kurnool district. The boy was carrying an iron pipe to use as a flagpole, which accidentally touched a high-tension power line, leading to his death. The incident occurred just before the PM's meeting and police have registered a case. This news was first reported by the auto-generated syndicate wire service and no changes have been made to the original report.
A private bus traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire, resulting in the death of 19 people. The Chief Minister has expressed grief and ordered for assistance to be provided to the victims and injured. The cause of the fire is believed to be a short circuit. Helpline numbers have been released and the army has been deployed at the scene.
A devastating accident occurred on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Highway in Rajasthan when an AC sleeper bus caught fire. Witnesses recounted the horrifying scene of passengers jumping out of the moving bus to escape the flames. The bus, carrying 57 passengers, was turned to ashes and officials fear that the death toll may exceed 15. Relief efforts are ongoing, with ambulance services creating a green corridor to quickly transport the injured to advanced treatment facilities.
In the wake of recent floods, the Jain community in Mumbai came together to donate ₹1.38 crore to 141 gaushalas in Maharashtra. The donations, totaling ₹50,000 per gaushala, will be used for purchasing fodder and supplies for the cattle. The community also launched a new animal ambulance and organized a Jivdaya Mahotsav to promote compassion for all living beings. Prominent guests and donors, including Shaina N C and Girishbhai Shah, were in attendance at the event.