On November 1, the White House celebrated Diwali with invited guests from a cross section of the Indian-American community ranging from political organizations to social/cultural groups. “ I was pleased to see that the White House has held a prominent event to honor Indian Americans upon the occasion of 'Diwali' for the third consecutive year,” said Atlanta based Republican activist Narender Reddy, one of the invitees, in a press release issued here recently. President Bush's Chief of Staff, Mr. Andy Card gracefully spoke about the positive role Indian Americans have had in this country. “President George W. Bush is the first American leader to seek a fundamental transformation of U.S.-India ties. He is also the first President to initiate a meaningful relationship with Indian Americans, resulting in a record number of Indian American political appointees serving in his Administration as well as a formal recognition of Diwali by the White House,” said Reddy. 

“I believe, this historic Diwali celebration is yet another example of our community's growing influence in the political arena,” he added. 

In the past, at White House Diwali Celebrations, President’s political strategist Karl Rove, and former U.S. Ambassador to India Robert Blackwill were the speakers. 
Mr. Gaurang Nanavathi of Chinnmaya Mission, Houston, Texas gave the invocation speech in which he termed Diwali as a celebration seeking Peace and prosperity to this world. The event was held in the Indian Treaty Room and guests were served with plenty of delicious Indian sweets.