President Donald Trump hosted Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, at the White House on Tuesday.
“We’re gathered today to celebrate a very special holiday observed by Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains throughout the United States and around the world,” Trump says.
According to National Geographic Kids, Diwali is a celebration of:
- In northern India they celebrate the story of King Rama’s return to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana by lighting rows of clay lamps.
- Southern India celebrates it as the day that Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura.
- In western India the festival marks the day that Lord Vishnu, the Preserver (one of the main gods of the Hindu trinity) sent the demon King Bali to rule the nether world.
Trump tells those gathered at the White House, “Together, we are one proud American family.”
Watch the Fox News video to see his full speech.