From Indiatimes · Aadrita Halder · · 2m
Trump Celebrates Diwali at White House
Trump hosts Indian diaspora at White House for Diwali, receives Hanuman Chalisa.
In brief
Trump hosts Indian diaspora at White House for Diwali, receives Hanuman Chalisa. US President Donald Trump celebrated Diwali with Indian diaspora at White House, receiving a Hanuman Chalisa from health-tech entrepreneur Vishal Gondal. Originally reported by Indiatimes.
Trump Hosts Diwali Celebration
US President Donald Trump participated in a Diwali celebration at the White House on Friday, bringing together prominent members of the Indian diaspora.
Vishal Gondal Presents Hanuman Chalisa
Health-tech entrepreneur Vishal Gondal, founder of GOQii, met Trump in the Oval Office and presented a copy of the Hanuman Chalisa.
Gondal's Social Media Post
Gondal described the meeting as a moment of shared celebration and shared light in the Oval Office with Trump.
Hanuman Chalisa Significance
The Hanuman Chalisa is a Hindu devotional hymn to Lord Hanuman that millions recite for courage, devotion and strength.
Gondal's Prayer for Friendship
Gondal prayed for stronger ties between India and the United States during the diya-lighting ceremony.
Jug Jug Jiyo Blessing
Gondal shared the traditional Indian blessing 'Jug Jug Jiyo' meaning 'may you live for ages' for peace and prosperity.
Diwali Tradition at White House
The tradition of celebrating Diwali at the White House began with President George W Bush in 2003.
Early Diwali Ceremonies
Initially, the ceremonies were held at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and attended by Indian-Americans and diplomats.
Obama's First Diya Lighting
President Barack Obama became the first US president to light a diya at the White House in 2009.
Modern Diwali Ceremonies
Since then, Diwali lamp-lighting ceremonies have been held at various White House locations including the Oval Office and Roosevelt Room.
Gondal's Social Media Details
Gondal shared details of the occasion on social media platform X, describing the meeting as a moment of shared light and celebration.
Gondal's Prayer for Light
Gondal stated his prayer during the diya-lighting ceremony was for friendship between India and America and the triumph of light over darkness.
Jug Jug Jiyo Meaning
The blessing 'Jug Jug Jiyo' means 'may you live for ages' and is a wish for peace, prosperity and good health.
Diwali at White House History
The tradition of Diwali celebrations at the White House started in 2003 with President George W Bush and has evolved since.
The one thing
US President Donald Trump celebrated Diwali with Indian diaspora at White House, receiving a Hanuman Chalisa from health-tech entrepreneur Vishal Gondal.
