On November 15, 2023, Honorable Congressman Bill Pascrell from New Jersey graciously invited members of Maninagar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan to partake in the Diwali Celebration at Capitol Hill. BAPS Public Affairs, along with several organizations, orchestrated Diwali at Capitol Hill, drawing in over 200 Indian American community members nationwide at the Dirksen Senate Office Building to honor the Festival of Lights alongside Congress members.

Diwali, synonymous with the triumph of good over evil, holds immense cultural significance in India, celebrated through lighting diyas (traditional lamps), culinary traditions, and prayers for wisdom and prosperity by Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities.

Elected officials present emphasized the value of diversity within their communities and the importance of sharing cultural traditions to foster understanding, unity, and trust. Our members engaged with Honorable Congressman Maxwell Frost, Honorable Congressman Steny Hoyer, Honorable Congressman Shri Thanedar, other United Stated House Representatives and various community leaders.

This remarkable event provided a unique opportunity to celebrate Diwali in the nation's capital, reflect on its timeless message, advocate for the Indian-American community, and engage with a diverse array of representatives on Capitol Hill.