Trump Celebrates Diwali At White House, Claims He Spoke With His 'Great Friend' PM Modi On Trade

Last Updated:October 22, 2025, 06:58 IST

Trump hosted Diwali at the White House, praising the festival’s message and his friendship with PM Modi, and wishing peace and prosperity to Indian-American communities.

US President Donald Trump celebrates Diwali at the White House. (White House)

US President Donald Trump participated in Diwali celebrations at the White House on Tuesday (local time) and extended his warm greetings to the people of India and Indian-Americans on the occasion.

During the celebrations, the US President praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a “great person" and a “great friend". He further highlighted the US-India ties in trade and regional peace.

“Let me extend our warmest wishes to the people of India. I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. Had a great conversation. We talked about trade… He’s very interested in that. Although we did talk a little while ago about let’s have no wars with Pakistan. The fact that trade was involved, I was able to talk about that. And we have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing. He’s a great person, and he’s become a great friend of mine over the years," Trump said.

Since May 2025, Trump has repeatedly claimed more than 40 times across speeches, interviews, and social media of mediating India-Pakistan ceasefire.

The US President’s comments refer to India’s Operation Sindoor, which involved precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) after the Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April, which killed 26 civilians. According to Trump, his intervention, including the threat of crippling tariffs, led both countries to step back from conflict within 24 hours.

“In a few moments, we’ll light the Diya as a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness… It’s knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. During Diwali, the revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed, and captives free. The glow of the Diya flame reminds us to seek the path of wisdom and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings…," Trump said on Tuesday.

On Monday, Trump extended his greetings to Americans observing Diwali, describing the festival of lights as a time for unity, hope, and celebration.

In a statement, Trump said, “Today, I send my best wishes to every American celebrating Diwali – the ‘Festival of Lights’." He highlighted the festival’s enduring symbolism, noting that for many, Diwali is a reminder of light triumphing over darkness.

The President emphasised that the celebration goes beyond religious observance. “It is also a time to bring families and friends together to celebrate community, draw strength from hope, and embrace a lasting spirit of renewal," he said.

Diwali, one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among Indian communities worldwide, is marked by the lighting of diyas and lanterns, feasting, and sharing of sweets. Trump noted the festival’s message of moral victory and the triumph of good over evil.

“As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good will always triumph over evil," the president said. He encouraged Americans to reflect on the deeper meanings of the festival and embrace its positive values.

In his statement, Trump also extended hopes for personal and communal well-being. “To every American celebrating Diwali, may this observance bring abiding serenity, prosperity, hope, and peace," he said. The message underscores the growing recognition of cultural and religious diversity in the United States, where Diwali has become an increasingly visible celebration in communities across the country.

Over the years, Diwali has become an important occasion for Americans of Indian origin and those embracing multicultural traditions. Events are held in major cities, including New York, Chicago, and Washington DC, featuring traditional performances, prayers, and community gatherings.

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