Washington: Former US President Donald Trump joined Diwali celebrations at the White House on Tuesday (local time), lighting diyas and extending his greetings to the people of India and Indian-Americans. The event underscored the growing cultural and diplomatic significance of Diwali in the United States.
‘Warm wishes to the people of India’
In his opening remarks, Trump said, “Let me extend our warmest wishes to the people of India.” He mentioned that he had a “great conversation” earlier in the day with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “great person and a great friend.”
“I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. We talked about trade… He’s very interested in that,” Trump said. He also remarked, “Although we did talk a little while ago about let’s have no wars with Pakistan… that was a very good thing.”
The former President emphasised his strong personal rapport with Modi, saying, “He’s a great person and has become a great friend of mine over the years.”
Diwali’s message of light and hope
Highlighting Diwali’s deeper meaning, Trump said, “In a few moments, we’ll light the diya as a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.”
He added, “During Diwali, revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed, and captives freed. The glow of the diya flame reminds us to seek the path of wisdom, work with diligence, and give thanks for our many blessings.”
After his remarks, Trump lit the diyas, marking the formal start of the White House celebration.
Dignitaries and diaspora attend
Several senior officials from the Trump Administration attended the event, including FBI Director Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai, Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor.
A delegation of Indian-American business leaders was also present, reflecting the growing engagement of the Indian diaspora in US-India relations.
The White House celebration highlighted Diwali’s increasing recognition in the United States as an important multicultural event, bridging communities and strengthening diplomatic ties.
US Congress honours Diwali
Earlier, US Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthi and Brian Fitzpatrick introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives recognising Diwali’s religious and historical significance.
The resolution honours Diwali’s cultural and spiritual importance to over three million Indian-Americans, including Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, and acknowledges their contributions to American society.
Diwali 2025: Festival of lights
This year, Diwali began on 20 October with Dhanteras, when people purchase jewellery or utensils and worship for prosperity. The following day, Naraka Chaturdashi or Chhoti Diwali, precedes the main celebration — Lakshmi Puja — when devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for wealth and good fortune.
The festival will conclude with Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj, symbolising gratitude, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness.