Donald Trump Celebrates Diwali at White House, Speaks with PM Modi on Trade and Peace with Pakistan

On Tuesday (local time), US President Donald Trump made a festival of lights, Diwali, a celebration at the White House where he lit the traditional diyas and gave warm greetings to the people of India and Indian-Americans. Trump, during his address, mentioned a “great conversation” he had with his “great friend” Indian PM Narendra Modi, which included trade and regional peace among the topics discussed.

“Had a Great Conversation with PM Modi”

Trump shared details of his latest conversation with the Indian Prime Minister, saying, “I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. Had a great conversation. We talked about trade... He's very interested in that.”

The US President also mentioned discussions around maintaining peace in South Asia. “We did talk a little while ago about having no wars with Pakistan. The fact that trade was involved helped us keep that conversation going — and we have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing,” Trump said.

Calling PM Modi a “great person” and a “great friend,” Trump praised the strength of the US-India relationship and Modi’s leadership, adding, “He’s become a great friend of mine over the years.”

Trump Lights Diyas at White House Diwali Event

Highlighting the spiritual essence of Diwali, Trump said, “In a few moments, we’ll light the Diya as a symbol of faith — the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.”

He added, “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 speech, Trump lit diyas in the White House along with senior officials and Indian dignitaries. Those present included FBI Director Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai, Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor.

A delegation of Indian-American business leaders also attended, reflecting the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in strengthening US-India relations.

US Congress Introduces Diwali Resolution

Ahead of the White House celebration, US Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthi and Brian Fitzpatrick introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives recognising Diwali’s cultural and historical importance.

The resolution honours the festival’s spiritual significance for over three million Indian-Americans, including Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, and acknowledges the diaspora’s contributions to American society.

Diwali 2025: Festival of Lights and Faith

This year, the five-day Festival of Light and Happiness, Diwali, started on October 20. The first day of the celebrations is Dhanteras, and after that, there is Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali), the main Diwali day, Govardhan Puja, and finally Bhai Dooj.

Each day is symbolic — from praying to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for wealth and good fortune to sharing the values of protection and family ties.

The White House celebration again highlights the increasing worldwide importance of Diwali and the strengthening of cultural ties between the US and India.