Watch: Sunita Williams celebrates Diwali in space, sends message for the world

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), shared Diwali wishes with people celebrating the festival in the United States and around the globe.
In a heartfelt video message recorded from space, Williams reflected on her unique experience of observing Diwali 260 miles above Earth.
“Greetings from the ISS,” she said. “I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating today at the White House and around the world.”
Her message was played during the White House Diwali celebrations. Williams also expressed her gratitude to US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their participation in Diwali festivities and for recognising the contributions of the Indian-American community.
“Thank you to the President and the Vice President for celebrating Diwali with our community today and for recognising the many contributions of our community,” she added, underlining the significance of cultural acknowledgement at such high levels of government.

In her message, Williams spoke of her father’s efforts to instil their cultural roots in her family, highlighting how he taught them about Diwali and other significant Indian festivals.
“This year I have the unique opportunity to celebrate Diwali from 260 miles above the earth on the ISS… My father kept and shared his cultural roots by teaching us about Diwali and other Indian festivals,” she said.
She emphasised the festival’s uplifting message of hope and renewal, stating, “Diwali is a time of joy as goodness in the world prevails.”
Her message resonated deeply as it coincided with a special Diwali celebration held at the White House, which highlighted the festival’s importance in American society and its ability to bring people together across diverse backgrounds.
Williams has been aboard the ISS since June 6, 2023, after launching with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft.
Initially scheduled as a week-long test flight, their mission has been extended due to a decision to return the spacecraft to Earth without its crew.
NASA deemed it “too risky” to bring Wilmore and Williams back prematurely, resulting in an extended stay of nearly eight months. They are expected to return to Earth in February 2025.