The American Hindu Coalition (AHC) hosted its Seventh Annual Day and Diwali Celebrations on November 17, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in Tysons Corner, Virginia.
The celebration of Diwali, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness, commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. AHC Chairman Shekhar Tiwari and President Harsh Sethi lit the lamp, accompanied by Hindu prayers, recited by Pandit Ram Sneh Tripathi from Rajdhani Mandir. Virginia’s Attorney General Jason Miyares extended his Diwali wishes through his representative, Harold Pyon.
Welcoming guests at the event, President Sethi noted, “We support candidates, who embody the value of Hinduism – values that extend beyond religion – embracing Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, and all who align these timeless principles,” adding, “Our community is a shining example of achievements in America. With the highest per capita income and educational attainment, American Hindus excel across every field from medicine and technology to academia and entrepreneurship.”
Congressman-elect, Suhas Subramanyam, while thanking AHC for its support, said, “I was elected to the US House of Representatives this November, and many of you were a part of that journey. So, thank you so much.”
Highlighting the significance of AHC’s mission, Subramanyam conveyed the organization’s role in promoting Hinduism and its values. “There’s lots of ways to be Hindu,” he noted, sharing memories of attending Chinmaya Mission while growing up.
Subramanyam spoke about the need to address misconceptions about Hinduism. He referenced incidents where Hindus faced hostility, explaining that according to some, “being Hindu means you’re against something else or someone else.” He clarified, “And that could not be further from the truth. Hinduism is all about being accepting and loving…”
“Many of you were very vital to helping me get elected, and I hope now that you’ve helped me get elected, that you stay with me and help me, with legislation, with ideas, and help me serve the community,” he added. “And I know you all do many things in your own capacity, serving the community. I hope you’ll help me in my journey as well. I look forward to being your bigger champion in Congress.”
AHC’s Chairman, Tiwari, articulated the organization’s founding principles, and explained the genesis of its name. He said the term “American,” underscores its identity as a U.S.-based organization with no special allegiance to any particular country. The term “Hindu,” reflects an inclusive recognition of the principles of Hindu enlightenment, embracing a philosophy rooted in ancient wisdom. Finally, “Coalition,” represents the spirit of unity, bringing together diverse perspectives and individuals.
Tiwari expressed profound sadness over the loss of innocent lives in the Middle East, including those of Jewish people and thousands of children and women in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and compassion in the face of such tragedies.
Chargé d’ Affaires of the Embassy of Myanmar, U Thet Win, expressed gratitude to AHC for the invitation, and referenced the cultural connections between Buddhism and Hinduism. He noted that Myanmar also celebrates a Lighting Festival, and that Diwali is observed in his country alongside members of the Hindu diaspora.
At the event, Ohio State Senator Niraj Antani, and former New Jersey legislator Upendra Chivukula were honored with AHC’s “Exceptional Community Service” Awards.
While accepting the award, Chivukula reflected on his early life in India, and his 50-year journey in the United States.
“I never dreamt that it would be possible for me to be a state legislator someday. But I was given the opportunity, and so I was able to make a small difference. And so, as a legislator, I had the opportunity to create a Diwali resolution in the first few years of my career,” he said noting the community celebrates Diwali for not one or two days but for the entire month with so many events.
Chair of the Virginia Asian Advisory Board, Srilekha Palle, received the award on behalf of Antani, who couldn’t make it to the event.
President of Sikhs of America, Jesse Singh, delivered a message around the need for unity and love, and went on to say, “We totally condemn any attacks or protests against not only Hindu temples, but any religious places. Hindus and Sikhs have a bond that goes back to centuries. Our gurus have taught us secularism, and to respect all religions. Sikhs will always be there to support our Hindu brothers.”
Pakistani-American Businessman, Sajid Tarar, highlighted his strong connections with the Hindu community, noted, “Let’s not forget the Hindus in Bangladesh,” drawing attention to struggles faced by the Hindu community there amid recent protests. He also pledged to encourage more of his Pakistani-Muslim friends to join in AHC’s Diwali celebrations next year.
Dr. Shobha Chokkalingam, from the Georgia Republican Caucus of AHC, remarked, “The road to the White House indeed passed through Georgia… I haven’t stopped smiling since midnight on November 5th.”
Reflecting on the controversial “curry” remark by Trump supporter Laura Loomer, Dr. Chokkalingam shared a memorable experience involving the President-elect. She recounted that Trump had called her aboard his Trump Airlines, describing it as “an unforgettable moment.” According to her, Trump, “in his “usual very high energy,” said, “I’ve been asked by about eight people to call you today. I’m going to get in trouble if I didn’t call you today.”
She added that they had “a lovely conversation for about 8-10 minutes,” during which Trump expressed his intent to re-assure the Indian-American and Hindu communities of his unwavering support.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Energy for International Affairs, Bart Marcois, Assistant Director (Asia Pacific Institute), American Jewish Committee Global, Nissim Reuben, also spoke at the event. Among others, the event was graced by Chairman Trustee of the National Council of Asian Indian Association (NCAIA), Sunil Singh, and Ambassador Pradeep Kapur.
Executive Director of AHC, Alok Srivastava, delivered the vote of thanks, while NCAIA’s Anju Preet served as the event’s emcee. Cultural performances were presented by Indrani Davaluri from Natya Margam School in Virginia, Niraj Palikhey of RootsDC, and the South Indian Sakhi Group.
