Lawmakers Join Indian Americans for Annual Diwali on Capitol Hill Celebration  

Over two dozen U.S. lawmakers joined Indian Americans in celebrating Diwali during the annual “Diwali on Capitol Hill” event on November 13. The gathering, organized by the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in collaboration with several partner organizations, underscored the growing recognition of Indian culture and its integration into American society.

Prominent attendees included Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Hyde Smith (R-MS), along with U.S. Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Andy Ogles (R-TN), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Ben Cline (R-VA), Ben Hoyer (D-MD), Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Dan Meuser (R-PA), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Nick LaLota (R-NY), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Darin LaHood (R-IL), and Scott Perry (R-PA).

The celebration also saw the presence of Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Vinay Mohan Kwatra, alongside representatives from co-hosting organizations such as the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), Hindu American Foundation (HAF), and the U.S. Indian Community Foundation. Other partner groups included the Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), and the American Jewish Committee (AJC).

During his address, Ambassador Kwatra highlighted the global embrace of Diwali, emphasizing its universal appeal. “This is an Indian festival which is embraced and celebrated the world over,” he stated. “Your presence here, the presence of so many congressmen and senators, has made it all the more special.”

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a key figure among Indian American lawmakers, delivered his greetings while underscoring the significance of the Indian diaspora’s contributions to American society. “I have to say, as one of the five current members of Congress who are Indian American, I affectionately call them the Samosa Caucus. We need more samosas in Congress,” he said, referring to the growing representation of Indian Americans in politics. He also shared the news of Suhas Subramanyam’s expected addition to this group, noting, “Indian Americans in this country have arrived.”

The event was marked by bipartisan appreciation for the values represented by Diwali—particularly the triumph of good over evil. Lawmakers expressed their admiration for the Indian American community and emphasized their commitment to protecting the cultural and religious diversity that enriches the United States.

Rep. Andrew Garbarino, in his address, stressed the importance of safeguarding Hindu temples across the country. “There is a bipartisan effort to make sure Hindu temples are protected,” he said. He also pointed to the Homeland Security Committee’s ongoing work in this area. “We’re going to continue to work to make sure that the temples get the security protection that they need,” Garbarino added, referencing a recent visit to the Melville BAPS temple as an example of community engagement.

Echoing similar sentiments, Rep. Tom Suozzi spoke about the values of respect and divinity intrinsic to Indian culture. “When Indian Americans place their hands like this and say namaste, they’re really recognizing the divinity and the respect they have for the person in front of them,” he noted. “We need more of that in our country today.”

Rep. Shri Thanedar addressed the gathering with a focus on the challenges faced by Hindu communities, both domestically and internationally. “There’s a lot that needs to be done,” he said. “I’m working with the State Department on the attacks on Hindu temples and making sure our community is protected all across America.” He further highlighted his efforts to address issues beyond U.S. borders, adding, “I’m also working with the State Department on the atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh.”

The gathering reinforced the shared commitment of lawmakers and community leaders to fostering inclusivity, promoting cultural understanding, and ensuring the safety and freedom of all religious practices. As Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, the event served as a reminder of the values that unite diverse communities across the U.S.

Lawmakers and attendees alike emphasized the need for continued collaboration to address concerns and support the flourishing Indian American community. The “Diwali on Capitol Hill” celebration highlighted the growing significance of Indian culture in the national fabric, while also paving the way for meaningful conversations about unity, security, and shared values.