Atlanta Celebrates Diwali: Mayor, CoHNA Highlight Contributions Of Hindu Community

India-West Staff Reporter

ATLANTA, GA – City Hall was packed as over 250 Atlanta residents joined Mayor Andre Dickens to celebrate Diwali. Organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), the event drew an esteemed crowd from Atlanta’s Hindu community, along with prominent lawmakers and diplomats.

The night was aglow with lights, music, cultural performances, delicious food, and a vibrant mix of community leaders, lawmakers, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and artists, reflecting Atlanta’s diverse spirit.

The evening opened with Mayor Dickens lighting a traditional Diwali lamp, followed by Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman reading a City Council Proclamation in honor of Diwali.

In his remarks, the mayor thanked CoHNA and praised the Hindu and Indian American community’s contributions: “You continue to make a major impact on this region’s culture and economy. You have established successful businesses, created cultural centers that educate and inspire, and are deeply engaged in the community. You are our teachers, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, developers, and more, helping to shape Atlanta’s future in every field.”

Distinguished attendees included U.S. Representatives Rich McCormick (R-GA), Hank Johnson (D-GA), and Beth Van Duyne (R-TX); state senators Shawn Still and Nikki Merritt; House Representative Esther Panitch; and Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman. The Consul General of India, Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, and Deputy Consul of the Bahamas, Tyson McKenzie, were also present.

CoHNA Board Member Suresh Krishnamoorthy highlighted CoHNA’s mission: “Our mission is to educate on issues affecting Hindu Americans, advocate for their rights, and foster positive community engagement. This event is about connecting with the community, and we are grateful to the Mayor for partnering with us.”

This Diwali event concluded the Hindu Heritage Month celebrations across Georgia, which began with a proclamation by Governor Brian Kemp. Throughout the month, CoHNA and other Hindu organizations hosted Diwali celebrations at hospitals, schools, and libraries.

CoHNA also honored distinguished community members with awards for their dedication and service to the Hindu community.