WASHINGTON (TIP): Following in the footsteps of his predecessor Barak Obama, President Trump himself led from the front by hosting a Diwali celebration in the White House on October 17.

In his first Diwali celebration in the Oval Office of the White House, Trump was accompanied by senior Indian-American members of the administration, including US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley, Seema Verma, administrator of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Ajit Pai, Chairman of the US Federal Communications Commission and Raj Shah, Principle Deputy Press Secretary. Many community leaders and President’s daughter Ivanka Trump also joined the celebration.

“Today, I was deeply honored to be joined by so many administration officials and leaders of the Indian-American community – to celebrate Diwali — the Hindu Festival of Lights,” Trump said. “Today, we proudly celebrate this holiday in THE PEOPLE’S HOUSE. In so doing, we reaffirm that Indian-Americans and Hindu-Americans are truly cherished, treasured and beloved members of our great American family.”

“As we do so, we especially remember the People of India, the home of the Hindu faith, who have built the world’s largest democracy. I greatly value my very strong relationship with Prime Minister Modi,” he further added.

Trump also lit diyas on the occasion and hailed the Indian American community’s contribution in different fields.

“Our Indian-American neighbors and friends have made incredible contributions to our country – and to the world. You have made extraordinary contributions to art, science, medicine, business and education. America is especially thankful for its many Indian-American citizens who serve bravely in our armed forces and as first responders in communities throughout our great land,” he said.

Diwali, he said, is one of the most important celebrations in the Hindu religion.

“A time of peace and prosperity for the New Year, it is a tradition that is held dear by more than 1 billion Hindus worldwide and more than 2 million Hindus in the United States. It is also celebrated by millions of Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains in America, India and around the world,” he said.

The tradition of Diwali celebration at the White House was first initiated by President George Bush.