Washington, D.C. — On October 21, 2025, President Donald Trump hosted a Diwali reception in the Oval Office of the White House, joined by Indian-American government officials, diplomats, and business leaders. He described Diwali as “the beautiful Hindu festival of lights” that celebrates “faith in the victory of light over darkness.”
During his remarks, Trump emphasized the symbolic significance of the diya lighting — a traditional lamp — representing knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. He extended his “warmest wishes” to India and acknowledged the contributions of Indian-Americans to U.S. economic and diplomatic relationships.
The gathering included prominent figures such as Kash Patel, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence; Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights; and Vinay Kwatra, the Indian Ambassador to the United States. Leading business executives of Indian descent also attended, including CEOs of major technology companies, reflecting the strength of Indian-American contributions to innovation and investment.
During his welcome, Trump referenced his recent conversation with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing discussions on trade and the strategic U.S.–India partnership. He reiterated his administration’s policy that companies building in the U.S. would be exempt from tariffs, underscoring America’s competitive edge in international investment.
The event marked a significant moment of cultural engagement at the highest level of U.S. government, spotlighting the Indian-American community’s growing role in bridging economic and diplomatic ties between the two democracies.
