NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, currently stationed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for nearly five months, shared heartfelt Diwali wishes during a special celebration held at the White House. In a video message beamed from 260 miles above Earth, the Indian-origin astronaut expressed her joy for the festival, extending warm greetings to those celebrating in the United States and around the world.
“Greetings from the ISS,” Williams said. “I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating today at the White House and around the world.” Reflecting on her father’s dedication to preserving their cultural heritage, she reminisced about his efforts to teach her and her family about Diwali and other Indian festivals.
“This year, I have the unique opportunity to celebrate Diwali from the ISS,” she continued. “My father kept and shared his cultural roots by teaching us about Diwali and other Indian festivals.” Williams highlighted the festival’s significance, emphasizing that Diwali is a time of joy when goodness prevails in the world.
She also expressed her gratitude to U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for recognizing the festival and its importance within the community. “Thank you to the President and the Vice President for celebrating Diwali with our community today and for recognizing the many contributions of our community,” she added.
This message resonated strongly, particularly as it coincided with a special Diwali event at the White House, which showcased the administration’s acknowledgment of the diverse cultural fabric of the nation.
Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore have been at the ISS since June 5, 2024, after launching aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Initially intended to be a week-long test flight, the mission has been extended to approximately eight months due to NASA’s assessment that it was “too risky” to return the crew to Earth at this time. They are expected to return in February 2025.
As the world celebrated Diwali, Sunita Williams’ unique perspective from space not only highlighted the festival’s joy and hope but also reinforced the importance of cultural connections that transcend borders.
Sources By Agencies
