One World Trade Center illuminated with Diwali colors and animation

One World Trade Center showcased a vibrant display of animated imagery celebrating Diwali on Tuesday for eight hours from 6:00 pm to 2:00am

Visitors to the One World Trade Center experienced this spectacular animation at the building’s base and spire, which honors the festival of lights and symbolizes the victory of good over evil, according to a media release from the South Asian Engagement Foundation (SAEF).

This year marks the fourth anniversary of the All-American Diwali celebration at the World Trade Center.

Additionally, the New York Governor’s Office and the NYC Mayor’s Office have commissioned the spire atop One World Trade Center to display Diwali color palettes, further illuminating this iconic building with the spirit of positivity and brightness associated with the festival.

Technology partner, Spireworks featured a stunning array of colors including pink, red, blue, and yellow, embodying the joyous essence of Diwali, a festival that inspires positivity and celebrates the triumph of light over darkness on not only the One World Trade center but also on top of One Bryant Park, in Astoria, New York.

SAEF stated its mission is to strengthen the Indian American identity and foster a deeper understanding of the community’s contributions. “We are dedicated to initiatives that empower and reshape the narrative surrounding Indian Americans, aiming for meaningful change in how the community is perceived and integrated into the broader American fabric.”

READ: Biden celebrates Diwali at White House with South Asian Americans (October 29, 2024)

Meanwhile, New York Mayor Eric Adams welcomed over 1,000 guests to Gracie Mansion for an annual Diwali celebration, a vibrant event that was geared to showcase the cultural diversity and community spirit of the Big Apple.

Indian American State assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar recalled the mayor’s efforts at making Diwali a school holiday and his quick responses to hate crimes at temples.

Adams praised and thanked the Indian American community for their contributions and noted the historic appointment of Meera Joshi as New York City’s first Indian deputy mayor.

He exhorted the community, “And don’t lose sight that running for president is a woman with Indian and African-American background. You are moving at a rate that no one thought was imaginable. So you can never go back. You can never find yourself back into the shadows of the American dream. You must continue your progress.”

READ: Indians celebrate Diwali at New York’s Times Square (October 22, 2024)

The celebration featured an array of delectable offerings, with World Vegan Vision, founded by HK and Malti Shah, providing plant-based sweets and savory dishes.