President Donald Trump lit a ‘diya’ in the Oval Office to celebrate his first Diwali at the White House along with a host of senior Indian-American officials of his administration and some community leaders.
In his remarks on the occasion, Trump lauded the people of India for building the world’s largest democracy. He had a special word of praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he greatly values the “very strong relationship” with him. He also extolled the contributions of Indian-Americans in different walks of life.
Ivanka Trump, the President's daughter Ivanka, was among those present, along with senior Indian-American members of the administration, including US Ambassador to UN Nikki Haley, Administrator of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Seema Verma, US Federal Communications Commission Ajit Pai and Principal Deputy Press Secretary Raj Shah.
“Today, I was deeply honoured to be joined by so many administration officials and leaders of the Indian-American community - to celebrate Diwali - the Hindu festival of lights,” Trump said in a Facebook post later, along with a video of the Oval Office celebrations.
“As we do so, we especially remember the people of India, the home of the Hindu faith, who have built the world’s largest democracy,” he said, adding: “I greatly value my very strong relationship with Prime Minister Modi.
Hailing the Indian-American community, Trump said: “You have made extraordinary contributions to art, science, medicine, business and education. America is especially thankful for its many Indian-American citizens who serve bravely in our armed forces and as first responders in communities throughout our great land.”
“Today, we proudly celebrate this holiday in The People’s House,” he remarked. “In so doing, we reaffirm that Indian-Americans and Hindu-Americans are truly cherished, treasured and beloved members of our great American family.”
“A time of peace and prosperity for the New Year, it (Diwali) is a tradition that is held dear by more than 1 billion Hindus worldwide and more than 2 million Hindus in the United States. It is also celebrated by millions of Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains in America, India and around the world,” he said.
The Indian-American community leaders present on the occasion included Chicago-based businessman Shalabh Kumar, an early supporter of Trump and a big-time contributor to his campaign.
The White House began the Diwali celebrations under the George W. Bush administration. Former President Barack Obama became the first President to personally join the celebrations by lighting the ceremonial diya in 2009.