US President Donald Trump on Monday sent his best wishes to Americans celebrating Diwali, the ‘Festival of Lights’.
In his message, Trump described Diwali as a “timeless reminder of the victory of light over darkness” and emphasized its importance as a time for families and communities to come together. He said the festival allows people to “draw strength from hope and embrace the enduring spirit of renewal”.
Trump added: “As millions of citizens light diyas and lanterns, we rejoice in the eternal truth that good always triumphs over evil.”
He concluded by wishing that the observance of Diwali would bring “permanent tranquility, prosperity, hope and peace” to all Americans who celebrate the festival.
Trump again claims that PM Modi told him that India will stop buying Russian oil
Trump said on Sunday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had informed him that India would stop buying Russian oil, while warning that New Delhi could face “massive” tariffs if it did not comply.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said: “I spoke to Indian Prime Minister Modi and he said he’s not going to do things with Russian oil.
When asked about the reaction of India, which reportedly denied any prior knowledge of such a conversation, Trump said: “But if they want to say that, then they’re just going to continue to pay massive tariffs, and they don’t want that.”
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions over global energy markets and the US-India trade relationship, and underscore the president’s continued focus on tariffs and the impact of international trade.
Diwali in the US: Recognized by several states
Diwali is not a federal holiday in the United States, so federal offices, courts, and stock markets such as the NYSE and Nasdaq remain open. However, several US states and cities officially recognize the festival, allowing schools to close and state employees to take paid time off.
California – Starting in 2026, it will officially recognize Diwali under Assembly Bill 268, which will allow public schools, community colleges and government employees to celebrate the holiday.
Pennsylvania – Declared Diwali a public holiday in 2024 with a paid holiday for state employees.
Connecticut – Added Diwali to its list of public holidays in 2025.
New York City – Public schools celebrate Diwali as a holiday starting in 2024.
New Jersey and Texas – Select school districts allow closures or excused absences during Diwali.
This growing recognition highlights America’s cultural diversity and recognizes the contributions of Indian-American communities across the country.
Read also | Is Diwali a holiday in the United States? Here’s what you need to know
