City Of Los Angeles Recognizes Diwali With Historic Proclamation

India-West Staff Reporter

LOS ANGELES, CA – In a historic moment of cultural recognition, the City of Los Angeles hosted a presentation and issued a proclamation in honor of Diwali, the festival of lights.

The event, led by council members Nithya Raman and John Lee, celebrated Diwali’s powerful message of light triumphing over darkness and good over evil, a sentiment that resonates with Angelenos of all backgrounds.

“Diwali is a vibrant festival, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, and good over evil,” councilmember Raman said in her address, emphasizing the universal significance of the celebration.

Councilmember Lee echoed this sentiment, adding, “As we light our diyas today, let us remember that we have the power to bring light into the lives of others.”

The ceremony featured a traditional invocation by Pundit Balmiki Sharma, who chanted Rigvedic mantras, bringing an authentic touch of cultural heritage to the event.

Sunil Agrawal, President of the India Association of Los Angeles (IALA), expressed gratitude on behalf of the Indian American community, thanking Councilmembers Raman and Lee for their support. “By adopting this resolution, the City of Los Angeles has not only acknowledged the significance of Diwali, but it has also reaffirmed its commitment to embracing cultural diversity as a source of strength,” Agrawal said. “This recognition is a powerful reminder that when we celebrate our differences, we build a stronger, more united community. It is through understanding and celebrating the cultural traditions of others that we foster compassion, respect, and inclusivity.”

Agrawal also marked the occasion by presenting each councilmember with a box of traditional Diwali sweets and a small memento, symbolizing goodwill and the spirit of sharing that Diwali embodies.

Community leaders in attendance included Raman Chadha, Manmohan Chopra, and Pramesh Shah from IALA; Naren Jhala from Valley Hindu Temple; Latesh Bhambani from the Art of Living; and Ganesh Narayanaswami from Isha Foundation. These representatives joined the celebration, highlighting the contributions of the broader Indian American community to Los Angeles’ rich cultural fabric.

This event marks the first Diwali recognition in the history of the Los Angeles City Council, a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing efforts to embrace and celebrate cultural diversity, Agrawal noted.

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