Trump Hosts Diwali Celebration at White House, Praises PM Modi as ‘A Great Person’

Washington, October 22: US President Donald Trump hosted a grand Diwali celebration at the White House, extending festive greetings to the people of India and lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a great person.” The event, marked by the lighting of a traditional diya in the Oval Office, was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra, newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Members of the Indian-American business community also joined the celebrations, reflecting the growing strength of the US–India relationship and the influence of the Indian diaspora. Lighting the ceremonial lamp, President Trump described Diwali as “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness,” extending his “warmest wishes to the people of India.” He spoke about the festival’s deeper meaning, noting, “It’s knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. During Diwali, revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed and captives freed. The glow of the diya reminds us to seek wisdom, work with diligence, and always give thanks for our blessings.” Ambassador Vinay Kwatra expressed his gratitude to President Trump for hosting the celebration, calling it “a gesture that highlights the strength of diversity and mutual respect between the two nations.” He added, “On behalf of my Prime Minister and myself, I wish you and your loved ones a very happy Diwali. We hope the light of Diwali continues to shine on your success and on the enduring strength of India.” FBI Director Kash Patel, one of the most prominent Indian Americans in the Trump administration, also shared his appreciation. “It’s an honour to be a first-generation Indian-American celebrating Diwali in the Oval Office,” he said. “Under your leadership, Mr. President, millions of Americans are living the dream. To celebrate Diwali here is incredibly humbling, and Indians around the world are proud to see you embrace this festival of diversity.” Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, President Trump revealed that he had spoken with Prime Minister Modi earlier in the day. “We had a great conversation,” he said. “We talked about trade, and we’re working on some great deals between our countries. He’s very focused on trade and progress.” Trump also commented on India’s oil trade, stating that Modi had assured him India would be reducing oil imports from Russia. “He’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see that war end as much as anyone,” Trump noted, adding that India had “cut back significantly” on Russian oil purchases. The Trump administration, however, recently imposed a 25 percent tariff on India for importing Russian oil, even as no similar measures were announced against China, which remains Moscow’s largest energy buyer. When asked if more tariffs on China were planned, Trump responded that Beijing would likely face a 155 percent tariff from November 1 in response to its export controls on rare earth minerals. “China has been very rough with us,” he said, “but I still want to be nice to them. However, it’s not sustainable for them.” The Diwali celebration at the White House concluded with applause and photo opportunities, symbolizing the continuing warmth between the United States and India — two nations bound by shared democratic values, growing economic ties, and a mutual respect that shone brightly on the festival of lights. Trump Celebrates Diwali at White House, Praises PM Modi President Donald Trump hosted Diwali celebrations at the White House, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi “a great person” and extending warm wishes to the people of India. Lighting the traditional diya in the Oval Office, Trump described it as a symbol of light’s triumph over darkness. The event saw the presence of Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and FBI Director Kash Patel. Trump said he had a “great conversation” with PM Modi earlier in the day, discussing trade and cooperation, and reaffirmed the strong friendship between the US and India.