Governor Walz Visits Temple To Celebrate Diwali

India-West News Desk

PHILADELPHIA, PA – In a surprise Diwali visit to the Bharatiya Temple in Montgomery Township on October 31, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz met with Neil Makhija, Montgomery County Commissioner and Chair of the Board of Elections. Makhija, who made history as Pennsylvania’s first Asian-American County Commissioner across all 67 counties, welcomed Walz warmly.

Alongside Makhija, Governor Walz met Atul Sangal, board member and secretary of the Bharatiya Temple, and Priest Sri Seshasai Rompicharla. Walz joined in the Diwali traditions by lighting a diya, receiving a blessing, and offering brief remarks.

In his speech, Walz extended heartfelt wishes for a prosperous Diwali and emphasized Vice President Harris’s and his commitment to charting a New Way Forward. He highlighted plans aimed at lowering costs for South Asian American families, supporting small business ownership, promoting homeownership, and building safety and justice for all Asian American communities.