Russia and United States Send Diwali Greetings as Global Festivities Spread

On Sunday, the lights of Diwali flickered far beyond Indian streets – they even reached the embassies of Russia and the United States. Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov posted a warm video on X, reminding everyone that the lamp’s glow only grows when shared. He said, in his own words, that the festival’s spirit of mutual respect and goodwill mirrors the friendship between New Delhi and Moscow.

“Warm Diwali greetings to all our dear friends in India,” Alipov wrote, adding that the light of Diwali “never diminishes by sharing; rather, it only increases.” He hoped the occasion would bring “happiness, peace and prosperity” to the country.

Not to be outdone, the U.S. Embassy in India also jumped on the bandwagon, tweeting a simple “HAPPY DIWALI. The U.S. Embassy wishes all a celebration filled with light and happiness.” The message, brief as it was, still felt sincere – a nod to the deep cultural ties that bind the two nations.

Across the Pacific, Indian diplomatic missions in North America were busy turning the Festival of Lights into a showcase of art, music, and community spirit. In New York, the Consulate General thanked Governor Kathy Hochul for officially declaring November 8, 2026, as Diwali in the state. The gesture was seen as a recognition of the Indian‑American community’s contributions to the city’s vibrancy.

Down in Boston, the Consulate General joined a gathering at the Providence State House in Rhode Island. Consul General Raghuram S praised the Federation of Indian Americans (FIA) New England Chapter for pulling together community members and elected officials, including Congressman Gabe Amo and East Providence Mayor Roberto “Bob” DaSilva.

Over in Washington state, Governor Bob Ferguson stood beside Indian diplomats and State Senator Manka Dhingra at the Legislative Building, again proclaiming November 8 as Diwali. The ceremony featured traditional lamp‑lighting, cultural performances, and a lot of smiling faces.

Toronto’s Indian Consulate sent out its own festive wishes, hoping for joy, peace, and prosperity. Meanwhile, on the West Coast, San Francisco International Airport turned into a temporary gallery, displaying a Rangoli art exhibition that greeted travelers with bursts of colour and pattern.

In Silicon Valley, the Brahma Kumaris organised a Diwali event in Milpitas that mixed meditation, music, and the ceremonial lighting of lamps – a gentle reminder that the festival isn’t just about fireworks, but also about inner illumination.

Unfortunately, not every moment was serene. In Seattle, a handful of far‑right activists, led by Jake Lang, tried to disrupt the celebrations with a chant of “Deport All Dot Heads.” Lang later claimed on X that his group was attacked by festival goers, a claim that added a tense footnote to an otherwise joyous weekend.

Overall, the worldwide Diwali scene this year painted a picture of cultural exchange, diplomatic goodwill, and the occasional hiccup. Whether it’s a Russian ambassador sharing a lamp‑lit message or a U.S. governor signing a proclamation, the Festival of Lights continues to spark conversations – and, hopefully, more light in the world.