Nasa astronaut Sunita Williams extended her heartfelt wishes for Diwali to those celebrating in the United States, and around the world via video message shared from the International Space Station.
“Greetings from the ISS,” Williams began. “I want to wish everyone celebrating today—at the White House and across the globe—a very Happy Diwali.”
Williams who is a practising Hindu and South Asian cultural heritage shared that she had the opportunity to observe Diwali 260 miles above from Earth. She talked about her father’s efforts to keep their cultural roots alive by teaching her and her family about Diwali and other Indian festivals.
“This year I have the unique opportunity to celebrate Diwali from 260 miles above the earth on the ISS…My father kept and shared his cultural roots by teaching us about Diwali and other Indian festivals,” she added.
She emphasised the festival’s message of hope and renewal, “Diwali is a time of joy when goodness in the world prevails.”
Williams expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their participation in the Diwali celebrations and their recognition of the community’s contributions.
“Thank you to the President and Vice President for celebrating Diwali with our community today and acknowledging the many contributions we make,” she said.
Her message held special significance, as it was shared during a Diwali celebration hosted at the White House. President Joe Biden celebrated Diwali at the White House on Monday evening (local time) with Indian Americans from across the United States. Following the lamp lighting, Biden spoke at a reception for the Indian American community.
Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been aboard the ISS since June after launching on Boeing’s Starliner for its first crewed flight. Originally intended as a week-long mission, their stay was extended to around eight months after NASA deemed it “too risky” to bring them back on Starliner. Williams and Wilmore will continue their ISS work and are expected to return to Earth in February next year.