New Delhi [India], November 8 (ANI): Russia and the United States on Sunday extended Diwali greetings to people in India, with Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov highlighting the festival's message of sharing, mutual respect and goodwill as a reflection of the enduring friendship between New Delhi and Moscow.
In a video message shared on X, Alipov conveyed his warm wishes to people celebrating the Festival of Lights and expressed hope that the occasion would bring happiness, peace and prosperity.
"Warm Diwali greetings to all our dear friends in India. The lamp of Diwali gives us a beautiful message: light never diminishes by sharing; rather, it only increases. I believe that this very spirit of mutual respect, goodwill, and trust will continue to strengthen the friendship between India and Russia. May this auspicious festival of Diwali bring new hope, happiness, peace, and prosperity into your lives. Happy Diwali to you all," he said.
The US Embassy in India also extended festive wishes, saying in a post on X, "HAPPY DIWALI. The U.S. Embassy wishes all a celebration filled with light and happiness."
Meanwhile, Indian diplomatic missions across the United States and Canada marked the festival through cultural programmes, community gatherings and celebrations highlighting India's rich heritage and the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
The Consulate General of India in New York expressed gratitude to New York Governor Kathy Hochul for proclaiming November 8, 2026, as Diwali, the Festival of Lights, in the state. The mission said it appreciated the Governor's gesture and recognition of the Indian-American community's contributions to New York.
The Consulate General of India in Boston participated in Diwali celebrations organised at the Providence State House in Rhode Island. Consul General Raghuram S congratulated the Federation of Indian Americans (FIA), New England Chapter, for bringing together members of the Indian community and elected representatives. Congressman Gabe Amo and East Providence Mayor Roberto "Bob" DaSilva were among those attending the event.
In Washington, Governor Bob Ferguson joined Diwali celebrations at the state's Legislative Building alongside Indian diplomatic representatives and State Senator Manka Dhingra. Ferguson also proclaimed November 8 as Diwali in Washington State.
The Indian Consulate in Toronto extended greetings to people celebrating the festival, wishing them joy, peace, prosperity and happiness.
In San Francisco, the Indian mission highlighted a Rangoli art exhibition at San Francisco International Airport, showcasing India's cultural traditions to international travellers. Consul Raju Sharma also attended Diwali celebrations organised by the Brahma Kumaris Silicon Valley in Milpitas, featuring cultural performances, meditation and ceremonial lamp lighting.
However, celebrations in Seattle witnessed an attempted disruption on Saturday after far-right activist Jake Lang and other protesters arrived carrying placards bearing the slogan "Deport All Dot Heads". Lang later alleged on X that he and other protesters were assaulted by festival attendees. (ANI)
Russia, US extend Diwali wishes to people in India
