New York – Governor Kathy Hochul took part in a Diwali reception hosted by the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Flushing, Queens, honoring the Indian-American community’s Festival of Lights. The gathering brought together community leaders, elected officials, and devotees in a spirit of celebration and cultural solidarity.
The program included a traditional diya-lighting ceremony, devotional music, Bharatanatyam dance performances, and a warm address from Governor Hochul, who emphasized the importance of cultural diversity and civic engagement. A formal citation was presented to the mandir’s leadership in recognition of its ongoing contributions to community service.
Several state legislators and local dignitaries joined the event, underscoring the growing presence and influence of the Indian-American community in New York’s public life. Guests enjoyed vegetarian festive fare, rangoli art and a sense of communal festivity, as Diwali illuminated the Flushing neighborhood. 
