At Biden Diwali Event White House Band Plays Bhajan

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, DC – During the Diwali celebrations at the White House, the military band performed the devotional, “Om Jai Jagdish Hare,” captivating attendees with its heartfelt rendition. The event, hosted by President Joe Biden, aimed to honor the festival and the vibrant Indian community in the U.S.

A video shared by Gita Gopinath, the first deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, showcased four band members skillfully playing the song on piano, violin, cello, and drums.

Gopinath expressed her delight, stating, “Wonderful to hear the White House military band play Om Jai Jagdish Hare for Diwali. Happy Diwali!” The post quickly garnered over 4,000 likes and received an outpouring of praise from the Indian community.

Indian American composer and three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej commented on the performance, calling it “nicely done.” He praised the arrangement and noted the violinist’s impressive execution of the glissandos.

The backdrop of the video added to the festive atmosphere, with the White House adorned in vibrant marigold flowers, while many guests embraced the occasion by donning traditional Indian attire.