Thank you Ambassador Olof Skoog for your leadership and kind words,
- E. Csaba Korosii, President of the General Assembly,
Ranju Batra, Chair of Diwali Foundation USA,
Ravi Batra, Chair, National Advisory Council South Asian Affairs,
Hon. Eliot L. Engel, former Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs
Committee,
Excellencies,
My friends from the Indian American community.
Good afternoon!
It is such a pleasure to be amidst you on this happy occasion.
We are all gathered here to commemorate Diwali or Deepawali, the Festival of Lights, signifying the triumph of good over evil and the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya. It is a time to reflect and introspect, and spend quality time with our family and near ones. Above all, it is also a celebration of the eternal values of kindness, caring and compassion. Resonating very much with what we do here at the United Nations in the effort to dignify all.
I have been asked by the organisers to be brief, and given the long list of impressive speakers after me, I will sign off, but not before commending Ranju Batra. The power of this one lady has truly made a difference, and even as we celebrate Diwali at the United Nations, I salute your spirit, your perseverance and sheer dedication that has made the Diwali Stamp Forever possible, and that brings us together today in such festivity and joy.
Happy Diwali!
Thank you!