Obama celebrates Divali at White House

U.S. President Barack Obama became the first U.S. president to personally take part in a White House ceremony for Divali, the Hindu festival of lights, which will be celebrated around the world on Saturday.

On Wednesday Obama marked the occasion in the historic East Room of the White House by lighting a diya and bowing respectfully before a Hindu priest, amidst the chanting of vedic mantras.

In brief remarks, the president said, "While this is a time of rejoicing, it's also a time for reflection, when we remember those who are less fortunate and renew our commitment to reach out to those in need."

Obama used the occasion to sign an executive order to restore the White House Commission and Interagency Working Group to address issues concerning the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

"I think it's fitting that we begin this work in the week leading up to the holiday of Divali, the festival of lights, when members of some of the world's greatest faiths celebrate the triumph of good over evil," Obama said.

Obama's predecessor, George W. Bush, began the tradition of celebrating Divali but he refused to attend the ceremonies , which were held in an annex to the executuive mansion.