Fireworks, first-ever City Hall festivities mark festival of lights in Texas
Texas marked the festival of lights 2024 with historic firsts, including fireworks permitted for the first time in Houston and Harris County and Houston's City Hall hosting its inaugural Diwali celebration.
Organised by Consul General of India DC Manjunath, these groundbreaking festivities underscored Diwali's themes of unity, joy and cultural pride across the state.
The annual tradition of celebrating Diwali continued this year as well at the Governor's Mansion in Austin, where Governor Greg Abbott hosted an event honouring the message of hope and inclusivity.
Governor Abbott expressed gratitude for Consul General Manjunath's leadership in strengthening ties between Texas and the Indo-American community and said: "Diwali is more than a festival; it's a reminder of the light that unites us all.”
On October 31 at noon, Houston marked its inaugural Diwali celebration at City Hall where the Mayor's Office proudly hosted community members, city officials, and leaders from the Indo-American community in Legacy Hall.
Mayor John Whitmire warmly welcomed the gathering, highlighting the significance of the festival. “This is a momentous occasion for Houston and we are thrilled to celebrate Diwali,” he said. “Happy Diwali to all who are celebrating!”
The event featured captivating traditional Indian dance performances that filled Legacy Hall with energy, colour and cultural richness with notable attendees including Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, Congressman Al Green, and other influential figures who showed their support and solidarity with the Indo-American community marking their attendance.
“Thank you to Mayor Whitmire and the city of Houston for embracing Diwali and celebrating the values of culture, unity in diversity, and shared community,” remarked Indian Consul General Manjunath Chenneerappa.
His words resonated with the audience, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Jagdip Ahluwalia, founder and executive director of the Indo-American Chamber of Greater Houston (IACCGH), said: “We thank Mayor John Whitmire for opening up Houston City Hall's Legacy Room this afternoon and inviting Indian Consul General Manjunath to join him to co-host a reception celebrating DIWALI. We eagerly anticipate City Hall's illumination in India's national colours tonight."
As part of the festivities, City Hall later in the evening illuminated in the colours of the Indian Tricolour, symbolising hope, renewal, and the rich heritage of the Indian community.
