Washington D.C.: The US President Donald Trump took part in Diwali celebrations at the White House this week, extending festive greetings to Indian-Americans and citizens of India, while lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a close ally and a “remarkable leader.”
Speaking during the ceremony, Donald Trump highlighted the strong bond between the United States and India, emphasizing cooperation in areas such as trade and regional stability. “I had a very warm conversation with Prime Minister Modi earlier today,” Trump shared. “He’s a tremendous person and a true friend. We touched on trade and also discussed regional peace efforts. It’s always productive speaking with him.”
In a nod to the broader significance of the occasion, Trump reflected on the spirit of Diwali, describing it as a celebration of light overcoming darkness and wisdom prevailing over ignorance. “Lighting the diya represents the triumph of good over evil,” he said. “It reminds us to stay committed to truth, perseverance, and gratitude for our blessings.”
After his remarks, Trump lit ceremonial oil lamps—diyas—as part of the traditional observance. Senior figures from his administration were in attendance, including FBI Director Kash Patel, ODNI head Tulsi Gabbard, and White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai. The Indian Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and the U.S. Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, also joined the event.
Several prominent Indian-American business leaders were present, underlining the growing influence and engagement of the diaspora community in shaping U.S.-India relations.
The celebration underscored Diwali’s rising prominence in the American cultural landscape, as well as the deepening friendship between the two nations.
In a related development, U.S. Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Brian Fitzpatrick recently introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House, recognizing the historical and spiritual importance of Diwali. The resolution, according to an official statement, honors the festival’s significance for over three million Indian-Americans, including followers of Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, spans five days. It begins with Dhanteras, a day associated with prosperity and marked by buying gold or utensils. The second day, Naraka Chaturdashi or ‘Chhoti Diwali,’ is followed by the main celebration, where families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha to seek wealth and good fortune.
The fourth day, Govardhan Puja, is observed in honor of Lord Krishna’s legendary lifting of Mount Govardhan. The festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, a day dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters, during which siblings exchange prayers and gifts.
With festivities lighting up homes and hearts around the globe, the Diwali celebration at the White House was yet another reflection of the festival’s universal appeal and the enduring friendship between the United States and India.
