US President Barack Obama became the first president to light a diya to celebrate Diwali at the Oval Office on Sunday. He was also the first president to host a Diwali celebration at the White House in 2009.
Obama also sent out a message on Facebook wishing everyone across the world on the festive occasion. His message was also a "reminder" to forget differences and was indicative of an inclusive and multicultural America.
"To all who are celebrating the festival of lights across America and around the world, happy Diwali. As Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists light the diya, share in prayers, decorate their homes, and open their doors to host and feast with loved ones, we recognise that this holiday rejoices in the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance," he said in a Facebook post.
"It also speaks to a broader truth about our shared American experience. It's a reminder of what's possible when we see beyond the differences that too often divide us. It's a reflection of the hopes and dreams that bind us together. And it's a time to renew our collective obligation to deepen those bonds, to stand in each other's shoes and see the world through each other's eyes, and to embrace each other as brothers and sisters - and as fellow Americans.
"Michelle and I will never forget how the people of India welcomed us with open arms and hearts and danced with us in Mumbai on Diwali," he said.
In the message, he said he hoped that the tradition of lighting a diya on Diwali at the Oval Office will be continued.
The celebration of Diwali by the POTUS before the US presidential elections can also be seen as an indication that the Democrats, if elected, will continue the tradition. The celebration can also be seen not only as a promise of a more inclusive and immigrant-friendly US, if Clinton wins, but also as an acknowledgement of the over $10 million raised by Indian-Americans for the Clinton campaign.
Donald Trump too has been trying to woo the "Hindus" in US, leaving Indian Muslims feeling isolated in line with his vitriolic stance against Islam.
