On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, President Donald Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House, marking the occasion with a traditional diya lighting ceremony in the Oval Office. He extended warm wishes to the people of India and Indian-Americans. The celebration included Indian-American members of his administration, diplomats, and community figures. FBI Director Kash Patel and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard were among the key figures present.
During his initial remarks, President Trump praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him "a great person" and "a great friend". He highlighted the strong ties between the United States and India in areas such as 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," Trump said. He also stated, "He's a great person, and he's become a great friend of mine over the years".
Trump mentioned that his conversation with Prime Minister Modi primarily focused on trade issues. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, "We talked about a lot of things, but mostly the world of trade". He also reiterated his previous statement that India would not be purchasing significant quantities of Russian oil in the future.
The President briefly touched on regional peace, noting that he had previously urged both India and Pakistan to avoid conflict. "Although we did talk a little while ago about let's have no wars with Pakistan. And I think the fact that trade was involved, I was able to talk about that. And we have no war with Pakistan and India. And that was a very, very good thing," he said. However, it should be noted that India has not confirmed Trump's claims of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
President Trump emphasized the symbolic importance of Diwali, stating, "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 revelers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed, and captives freed". He further added that the diya's flame reminds everyone "to seek the path of wisdom and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings".
The Diwali celebration at the White House included a traditional lamp lighting, Indian sweets, and cultural performances. Trump delivered brief remarks reflecting on the festival's message of harmony and renewal.
Earlier in the day, President Trump extended Diwali greetings to all Americans, describing the festival as "a reminder of light's victory over darkness and good's triumph over evil". In a message published on the White House website, he said, "Today, I send my best wishes to every American celebrating Diwali—the 'Festival of Lights.' For many Americans, Diwali is a timeless reminder of light's victory over darkness. 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".
Diwali has gained increasing recognition across the United States in recent years. Several states, including Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and California, have officially recognized Diwali as a state holiday. California's Assembly Bill 268, which allows for school closures and paid leave for the festival, is set to take effect in January 2026. School districts in New York City, Edison and Jersey City (New Jersey), and parts of Texas have also begun observing Diwali as a school holiday.
Despite the positive sentiments expressed during the Diwali celebration, trade tensions remain between the United States and India. Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods in response to India's continued purchase of Russian oil, bringing the total tariff rate on imports from the country to around 50% this year.
