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US President Donald Trump extended his greetings on Wednesday to those celebrating Holi, characterising the Hindu festival as a vibrant celebration of spring's arrival and the victory of righteousness.
The official statement, shared on X by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt under the title "Presidential Message on Holi," expressed the first family's support for the festivities. "Melania and I send our best wishes to all who celebrate the Hindu festival of Holi, a day welcoming the arrival of spring and rejoicing in the victory of good over evil," Trump stated. The President further noted the global significance of the occasion, adding, "Today, as communities gather around the world to celebrate this festival of colours, I wish all Americans who observe Holi a day filled with hope, peace, and unity." Commonly known as the festival of colours, Holi is a major event in India and amongst the global Indian diaspora, representing renewal, social harmony, and the deepening of communal ties. The celebrations reached the iconic New York City skyline on Wednesday, where a festive display appeared in Times Square on 4 March. The Consulate General of India in New York shared the moment on social media, stating, "Wishing everyone a vibrant and joyous Holi from the heart of New York City. #TimesSquare May this festival of colours bring renewed hope, harmony and happiness to all." In the US capital, the Embassy of India in Washington DC also conveyed its wishes, noting that the holiday has evolved into a global symbol of multiculturalism and social equity. Reflecting the rising influence of the Indian-American community, Texas recently became the third US state, following Georgia and New York, to formally acknowledge the festival. A resolution introduced by Senator Sarah Eckhardt was passed by the Texas Senate to honour the event. The resolution noted that "The origins of this jubilant festival can be traced back many millennia, and the holiday is recognised and celebrated throughout the world by people of all backgrounds who relate to the festival's themes of love, renewal, and progress." This legislative milestone was supported by the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), with the Texas Senate highlighting how the festival enriches cultural diversity and reinforces community connections. (ANI)
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