[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 196 (Wednesday, December 12, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1656]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           RECOGNIZING DIWALI

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                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 12, 2018

  Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Diwali, a 
festival of lights celebrating the Hindu New Year. Originating in 
India, Diwali is the largest and one of the most important celebrations 
observed within the Hindu religion. Diwali's festival of lights 
symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over 
evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
  Diwali festivities include deep cleaning and extensive decorating of 
office buildings, temples, and homes. The celebration begins by 
lighting clay lamps in temple windows in honor of Lakshmi, the Hindu 
goddess of prosperity and wealth. Traditional Indian feasts take place 
with friends and loved ones, during which, sweets and presents are 
prepared and shared.
  The significance of this event is not exclusive to India. Today, 
where there are Hindus they honor their traditions and observe this 
important day. Here in Colorado, for example, we have a thriving and 
growing Hindu community. The Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of the 
Rockies also known as the Hindu Temple of Colorado located in the City 
of Centennial, and the 6th Congressional District exemplifies this.
  It is with great pride that I join all in recognizing Chairman Ved 
Nanda, President Sudhir Verma, Vice President Sridhar Talanki and Board 
Members: Arjun Sen, Mahesh Anandan, Anshuman Purohit, Asha Vasant, 
Deepak Malhotra, Madhu Bhat, Rajesh Agarwal, Rajesh Kaul, Ravi Raj, 
Reva Nayar, Sanjai Natesan, Sony Das; and volunteers Rahul Mirchand, 
Poonam Kakkar, Satish Kumar, and Suresh Lakkaraju.
  I wish them and all the Temple's members well as they celebrate 
Diwali.

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