Trump Hosts Diwali at White House, Calls PM Modi “Great Person”

On Tuesday, during a special Diwali celebration at the White House in Washington D.C., U.S. President Donald Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him “a great person,” and expressed his deep admiration for “the people of India.”

The gathering included the Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra; the newly appointed US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor; FBI Director Kash Patel; and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Several prominent business leaders from the Indian diaspora were also present. 

Symbolism, Speeches and Cultural Significance

Lamp Lighting in the Oval Office

U.S. President Donald Trump lit an earthen lamp in the Oval Office, calling it “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness” and extended his “warmest wishes to the people of India.”
He further articulated the deeper meaning of the festival:

“It’s knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. 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 and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings.” 

Indian Ambassador’s Gratitude

Ambassador Kwatra thanked President Trump for opening the White House — including the Oval Office — for the Diwali celebration. He said:

“Mr. President, let me start first of all by expressing a deep sense of gratitude for opening up White House, Oval Office, your home to mark Diwali’s festival of lights, which is celebrated by one-fifth of humanity….You are showcasing the strength of diversity through this celebration. So it’s truly a great honour. On behalf of my Prime Minister and my own behalf, wish you and your loved one, very, very happy Diwali greetings, particularly to over 5 million-strong Indian diaspora in the US and I close by making a wish, which is what we do for Diwali. We wish that the light of Diwali continues to shine on your success and on the strength of India.” 

Strategic and Trade Dimensions Highlighted

While the event was celebratory, President Trump also used the Diwali platform to reference broader strategic issues.

Conversation with PM Modi and Trade Talks

Trump told reporters:

“I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. We had a great conversation. We talked about trade. We talked about a lot of things, but mostly the world of trade. He’s very interested in that.” 

Russian Oil Imports and Tariffs

He reiterated claims that India would reduce oil purchases from Russia:

“We just have a very good relationship, and he’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see that war end as much as with Russia, Ukraine…they’re not going to be buying too much oil. So, they’ve got it way back, and they’re continuing to cut it way back.” 
The celebration thus doubled as a diplomatic gesture — symbolic of US-India ties and embedded with messages on trade and energy.

Conclusion

The Diwali celebration at the White House hosted by President Trump combined cultural diplomacy with strategic messaging. By calling Prime Minister Modi “a great person” and lighting a diya in the Oval Office, Trump underscored the significance of India’s festival of lights.

At the same time, the event offered a platform to reaffirm deepening trade relations and energy partnerships between the US and India. As Indian-American business leaders, diplomats and officials gathered, the moment highlighted not just a festival but a reaffirmation of shared values, strategic interests and mutual respect.