CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Zohran Mamdani, the mayor of New York City in the United States, has extended greetings to the Indian diaspora on the occasion of Navratri, Durga Puja and Dussehra. Sharing a message on the social media platform X, he referred to the diverse religious and cultural traditions of the Indian Hindu community. Mamdani said these festivals offer an opportunity for self-reflection and a new beginning in life.
Mention of Garba and Sindoor Khela
In his message, Mamdani referred to several traditions associated with Navratri. He said people would perform Garba, express devotion to Goddess Durga through Sindoor Khela, receive tika from elders and decorate Golu in their homes. He said different families celebrate the festival as Durga Puja, Dashain, Dussehra or Navratri, but all these celebrations carry the message of self-reflection and new beginnings. His message reflected respect for the cultural diversity and religious traditions of the Indian community.
Acknowledges diversity of Indian traditions
Navratri and Dussehra are celebrated with different customs across various regions of India. In Gujarat, Garba and Dandiya are major attractions, while in West Bengal, Durga Puja and Sindoor Khela hold special significance. Many families in South India follow the tradition of decorating Golu during Navratri. On Dussehra, Ravan Dahan and Ramleela are organised in many parts of the country. By including these diverse traditions in his message, Mamdani acknowledged the varied cultural experiences of the Indian community. His message is being seen as a festive greeting for people of Indian origin living in the United States.
Festivals celebrated with enthusiasm in the United States
In several US cities, including New York, the Indian community organises religious and cultural programmes during Navratri and Durga Puja. These events include worship, Garba, Dandiya, music, dance and community gatherings. Such celebrations give members of the Indian diaspora an opportunity to remain connected with their cultural heritage and pass traditions on to the next generation. Mamdani’s message underlines respect for the festivals of different communities in such a multicultural environment. He wished that the festival would bring self-reflection, positive change and new beginnings into people’s lives.
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