Washington: US President George W Bush has sent his greetings to the Indian community on the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights, the first celebration to be held in the White House after his re-election.

"I send greetings to all those celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Light. Observed by millions round the world, Diwali is a time for the Hindus to give thanks for their knowledge, happiness and other blessings received," Bush said in his message.

"Laura joins me in sending our best wishes. May the coming year be filled with goodwill and prosperity," he said.

Several Indian community leaders attended the White House festivities yesterday (Nov 11, 2004), during which former US Ambassador to India and a senior official in the National Security Council Robert Blackwill assured the community that President Bush plans to visit India next year.

During the invocation, Diwali blessings were bestowed upon President Bush, his family, and the people of the USA and a prayer was offered for world peace and prosperity of the mankind.

Praising the Indian American community, he said Indians must now move beyond writing the checks to the politicians and start asking for return on their investment and begin to participate in the political process more than what was being done currently.

The traditional lamp was lit in the presence of about 150 invited guests by Ambassador Blackwill, and the Community leaders.