Source: www.indiajournal.com
ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND, November 5, 2009: Maryland Governor, Maryin O’Malley, celebrated Diwali for the first time at the Governor’s Mansion here, along with members of the Indian-American community.
“The Festival of Lights is a beautiful tradition, and the message of light over darkness is one that can be an inspiration to us all during these difficult times,” the Governor said wherein he appreciated the significant contributions made by the community in the progress of Maryland.
The Governor also issued a proclamation citing Oct. 17 as Diwali Day, and the week as Diwali week.
Addressing a large gathering of Indian American community and business leaders, Swami Dheerananda from Chinmaya Mission delivered a prayer and spoke about the significance of Diwali. Lt Governor Anthony Brown joined Governor O’Malley in the lighting of the Diya.