The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) hosted its annual Diwali celebration on October 24, 2025, at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C., bringing together dignitaries, diplomats, and business leaders to honor the Festival of Lights and the deepening partnership between the United States and India.

USISPF President and CEO Mukesh Aghi underscored the strength and contributions of the nearly six million Indian Americans in the United States, highlighting their quiet yet impactful presence across the medical field, academia, business, and among almost 300,000 students pursuing higher education.

He welcomed Indian Ambassador to the United States Vinay Kwatra, who served as the keynote speaker, along with several distinguished guests.

Expressing gratitude to Aghi and USISPF for bringing everyone together on the festive occasion, Ambassador Vinay Kwatra emphasized that Diwali, like any festival, is best celebrated “along with friends and family,” inviting everyone present to celebrate as part of an “extended Indian family.”

Ambassador Kwatra also reflected on the recent Diwali celebration at the White House, noting that President Donald Trump was “very kind and generous” in opening the White House to let the spirit of Diwali in and share his blessings. He added that through this celebration, everyone, alongside the President, joined in marking the festival with the Indian community, especially the Indian diaspora in the United States.

Special Assistant to the President and National Security Council Senior Director for South and Central Asia, Ricky Gill, spoke about the symbolic importance of Diwali amid global challenges.

“I think we’re in a time in the world and a place where peace is so delicate that Diwali has a special resonance for all of us here, that justice will triumph, that peace will triumph, and that ultimately, knowledge is something that will be upheld in our world,” he said.

Recalling the Oval Office Diwali celebrations, Gill highlighted that the President’s commitment to Diwali and to the US-India partnership remains strong.

“The US-India Strategic Partnership is not only ‘real and credible,’ but when the story of this administration is done, it will actually be a strengthened US-India partnership that everyone will be remarkably proud of,” he said. “We will support, ultimately, through reciprocity, the kind of partnership that we all dreamed of will come to fruition across multiple domains.”

He emphasized that collaboration will continue to expand in economics, education, technology, defense, energy, and trade, and commended the people-to-people ties between the two nations as “second to none.”

“I believe we’ll continue to soar to new heights,” Gill added, noting his personal pride as a first-generation Indian American who values “liberation, justice, and knowledge,” he added.

He concluded by saying “We’re all investing in a partnership that will make the next generation feel much prouder of the commitment we share.”

Anu Sehgal, Founder of The Culture Tree, spoke about her organization’s mission to amplify Indian voices in America through literacy, cultural programs, and community events.

She expressed appreciation for Aghi and Gaurav Verma of USISPF for their leadership and hospitality in organizing the celebration, noting that the event embodies the spirit of Diwali by “building bridges, creating opportunities, and fostering growth” across communities.

The evening concluded with a cultural performance by Ritamaya Dance, showcasing India’s diversity and the universal message of Diwali, the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

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