'Greetings from the ISS': Sunita Williams extends heartfelt Diwali wishes

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams extended heartfelt Diwali wishes from her post aboard the International Space Station (ISS), sending greetings to millions celebrating the festival worldwide, including at the White House. In a video message recorded 260 miles above Earth, Williams expressed joy in marking Diwali in such an extraordinary setting.

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“Greetings from the ISS,” she began, warmly wishing a Happy Diwali to all, especially acknowledging celebrations at the White House. Her message, played during the White House’s Diwali event, included gratitude toward President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their active participation in the festival and for their recognition of the Indian-American community’s contributions.

Reflecting on her Indian heritage, Williams credited her father for instilling cultural traditions in their family. “My father kept and shared his cultural roots by teaching us about Diwali and other Indian festivals,” she noted. She called her opportunity to celebrate Diwali in space a unique experience that connected her heritage with her career.

The video underscored the importance of cultural inclusion at high levels of government and in diverse fields like space exploration. Williams’s words highlighted the meaningful impact of celebrating Diwali beyond borders, inspiring people on Earth as she celebrated from afar in space.