Heads of State from Latin America and prominent Hindu Americans gathered for the American Hindu Coalition (AHC)-Latino Inaugural Ball, co-hosted with the Hispanic 100 and Latino Leadership Coalition, on January 19, 2025, at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Distinguished attendees included President of Argentina Javier Gerardo Milei, President of Paraguay Santiago Peña, Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-Michigan), Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears, former Ohio State Senator Niraj Antani, and key figures from the American Hindu Coalition (AHC), such as Chairman Shekhar Tiwari, President Harsh Sethi, Georgia Chapter Head Dr. Shoba Chokkalingam, Executive Director Alok Srivastava, and Virginia Asian Advisory Board Chair Srilekha Palle.

Lt. Governor Sears told South Asian Herald: “It’s wonderful to be at the Ball. You see people celebrating and having a good time because I believe they understand President Trump is going to bring back economic successes to our country.”

Reflecting on President Trump’s first term, Sears highlighted that Americans experienced financial stability with low taxes and reduced gas and food prices. She credited these policies for garnering support from diverse communities. President Trump will ensure parents have an opportunity to send their children to schools of their choice, she added.

Sears, who is running for Governor’s role this year also praised Trump’s immigration policies, stating: “I am an immigrant from Jamaica, so it’s not that we’re against immigrants. We just want to make sure that if you are here, you really are running toward liberty and not being a menace.” 

She noted her own journey as a testament to American progress: “Think about it. How can I be from Jamaica and I’m second in command in the former capital of the Confederate States? America has changed.”

A Celebration of Business and Cultural Collaboration

AHC’s Sethi emphasized Trump’s pro-business initiatives, including tax reforms, regulatory overhauls, and energy policies, which he said promote economic growth. These initiatives according to him are designed to create a more favorable business climate, encouraging investment and economic growth across various sectors.

Dr. Chokkalingam, the event coordinator, highlighted the Hindu community’s contributions to the U.S., noting nearly 5 million Hindus reside in the country, many on their path to citizenship. She praised the Hindu community’s dedication to their adopted homeland, stating that “loyalty to the United States is a core value,” and that the community is committed to contributing to the nation’s success. 

Dr. Chokkalingam highlighted the historical ties between India and the U.S., referencing their collaboration through platforms like the Quad. She praised Trump’s rapport with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed optimism for continued partnerships.

AHC’s Srivastava underscored Hinduism’s global presence, particularly in the Caribbean, and its shared philosophies with Buddhism. “Together, Hinduism and Buddhism form the second-largest spiritual traditions globally,” he noted. Srivastava also highlighted India’s emergence as the third-largest global economy and a critical U.S. ally, emphasizing shared values like free speech and strong legal systems.

Multicultural Coalition Inaugural Ball

On January 20^th, the Multicultural Coalition hosted the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Ball at The Washington Times in Washington, D.C.

Notable Indian Americans, including International Development Foundation President KV Kumar and former Virginia Lieutenant Governor candidate Puneet Ahluwalia, served on the host committee. Dr. Mark Burns chaired the event.

Speaking to South Asian Herald, KV Kumar expressed his admiration for President Trump: “As a host committee member, I was honored to participate in this historic victory party. President Trump was subjected to many false allegations, and I admire the courage of President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and their entire family.”

Kumar added, “I now have faith in America where equal justice for all will be restored,” expressing pride in witnessing the revival of a strong America.

Ahluwalia told South Asian Herald “It was an honor and privilege to be part of an esteemed group. President Trump’s victory has truly broadened the cultural and multifaith participation into the Republican Party.”

The event witnessed hundreds of attendees from various faiths and communities from across the country. Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, President Trump’s political advisor, Roger Stone, Executive Chairman and CEO of the Indian American International Chamber of Commerce (IAICC) Appen Menon, Secretary IAICC (USA Division), Glenn Falcao, Executive Director at Gracie Mansion Conservancy, Rhoda Binda, CEO Emeritus of the Jewish Community Relations Council, Michael Miller, Founder and CEO of GIVING Fragrances, Meera Gandhi, Co-Founder of International Museum of the Saree, Ashvini Persaud, and Board Member of Hispanic 100, Jerry Pierce among others were present at the Ball. 

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