New York Mayor hosts Diwali celebration, highlights Indian community's contribution

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has hosted a vibrant Diwali celebration at his official residence, warmly greeting members of the Indian community and lauding their contributions to the city's cultural and economic fabric.

On behalf of the Consulate General of India in New York, Deputy Consul General Vishal J Harsh conveyed Diwali greetings and spoke about the ''festival's enduring message of light, hope, and joy'', the Indian mission here posted in a social media post on Thursday.

''The Mayor warmly greeted the Indian community and commended their vibrant contributions to New York's cultural and economic life,'' it said.

Diwali festivities in New York also saw participation from Governor Kathy Hochul, who joined the Indian community at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Flushing, Queens.

Harsh thanked the Governor for her continued support to the Indian diaspora and conveyed festive greetings, the mission said in another social media post.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is gaining official recognition across the United States.

States like Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and California have declared Diwali an official holiday. In New York City, Diwali has been declared a holiday for public schools.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)