(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray today offered his greetings and best wishes to the District’s Indian American community during the multi-day celebration of Diwali (also known as Deepavali). Diwali, the “festival of lights,” coincides with the Hindu New Year, and celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The festival is celebrated not only amongst Hindus, but also amongst individuals of the Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist faiths, as well as people of other faiths across the world and among the Indian diaspora.

“I am thankful for the many Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, and Indian American residents in the District who help make our city a great place to live and work,” said Mayor Gray. “As communities celebrate Diwali across the District, I wish them a joyous and blessed holiday, and encourage all District residents to work towards peace, justice, and goodwill.”