US President Donald Trump participates in a Diwali celebration at the White House, lighting a diya in the Oval Office with Indian-American community leaders, CEOs and government officials. NDTV reports the event as an intimate gathering that includes Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Mint similarly describes the ceremony in the Oval Office, with entrepreneurs and Indian diaspora figures among those present.
Several outlets also add specific attendees and gifts. Free Press Journal lists a wide group, including US and Indian diplomats, corporate leaders and public figures, and says entrepreneur Vishal Gondal gives Trump a copy of the Hanuman Chalisa. India Today highlights diyas and the Hanuman Chalisa and notes chef Vikas Khanna present. Times of India and others frame the same core event as a Diwali celebration featuring the Hanuman Chalisa.
Other coverage focuses more on background and tradition. Business Line and The Hindu note that White House Diwali observances continue a practice started under President George W. Bush in 2003, with ceremonies held in different rooms over the years. NDTV (centre-right) and The Hindu both point to the Oval Office location and the ongoing tradition.
