[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 20]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 28759]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE UTTAR PRADESH ASSOCIATION OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA'S DIWALI 
                          FESTIVAL CELEBRATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE SESTAK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 30, 2007

  Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Uttar 
Pradesh Association of Greater Philadelphia for bringing Diwali to 
Delaware County.
  The U.P. Association of Greater Philadelphia is a non-profit 
organization formed 4 years ago to connect and provide a forum for 
people from the State of Uttar Pradesh and the surrounding regions in 
India. The association brings Indian culture to the community, adding 
to cultural understanding and awareness throughout the region.
  One of the group's main events is the celebration of Diwali, the 
Hindu festival of lights. Diwali is one of the few holidays celebrated 
throughout India, bringing people together in the spirit of the season. 
The origin of Diwali is unknown, although there are various legends and 
customs associated with it.
  In Northern India, where Uttar Pradesh is located, Diwali marks the 
return of Lord Rama after 14 years of exile and his defeat of the demon 
Ravana of Lanka. This represents the triumph of good over evil and of 
light over darkness, a theme that is common to Diwali stories from 
other regions of India.
  The UPAGP, along with the Indianica Academy in New Jersey, reenacted 
the story of Lord Rama on Saturday night, and put on a spectacular 
cultural program that transcended religion, race, and nation. The 
message of light as a symbol of knowledge and goodness driving away 
darkness and ignorance is one we would all benefit from hearing more 
often.
  I ask that everyone join me in commending the UPAGP for bringing 
Diwali and its message to Upper Darby, Delaware County, and the Greater 
Philadelphia area, in recognizing its contribution to the community, 
and in acknowledging the hard work and dedication of its members.

                          ____________________