Indian-American Politicians Face Backlash Over Diwali Greetings Amid Rising Social Media Hostility

Indian-American Politicians Face Backlash Over Diwali Greetings Amid Rising Social Media Hostility

Indian-American political figures, including FBI Director Kash Patel and former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, have encountered significant backlash and racist trolling on social media after extending greetings for Diwali, one of the major Hindu festivals symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Key points: - FBI Director Kash Patel, Nikki Haley, and Ohio Governor candidate Vivek Ramaswamy received hateful and xenophobic comments for posting Diwali greetings. - Far-right pastor Joel Webbon publicly mocked Patel and urged him to “go back to India and worship demons,” highlighting prevalent misinformation and bigotry. - The attacks largely stemmed from MAGA supporters and Christian nationalist circles, exposing deep-seated religious intolerance and racism. - Despite the hostility, President Donald Trump held an official Diwali celebration at the White House, attended by Patel and prominent Indian-American leaders. - Diwali celebrations in the U.S. have gained bipartisan recognition, reflecting growing cultural diversity and the Indian diaspora’s influence.

Social media backlash targets Indian-American leaders on Diwali

As Diwali arrived, Indian-American politicians sought to share messages of light, hope, and unity. FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X, “Happy Diwali -- celebrating the Festival of Lights around the world, as good triumphs over evil.” Nikki Haley wished, “May light, hope, and goodness guide your path this year.” Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy echoed similar sentiments.

However, rather than receiving widespread support, these greetings provoked waves of hateful and racist comments. Far-right pastor Joel Webbon not only mocked Kash Patel but instructed him to “Go back home and worship your sand demons," fueling a major debate on misinformation around Hinduism and India.

Social media users questioned Haley’s loyalty with comments like “So India first, Nikki?” and disparaged Ramaswamy, accusing him of being a “demon worshipping foreigner” who should self-deport. Even Tulsi Gabbard, a prominent Hindu politician with no Indian heritage, was targeted with xenophobic remarks.

Ideological roots of hostility and racism

Most of the online attacks originated from supporters aligned with former President Donald Trump’s MAGA movement and Christian nationalist factions in the GOP. Journalist Mehdi Hasan observed that MAGA leaders have empowered and emboldened a base steeped in theocratic and racial intolerance, comparing it to a “monster” they have created.

Commenters frequently invoked Christian nationalist rhetoric, dismissing Diwali as a “false religion’s nonsense” and demanding Indian Americans “assimilate or leave.” Several comments openly expressed racist xenophobia, reflecting broader tensions linked to immigration policies and cultural identity politics.

Political and social responses

While facing these attacks, Indian-American leaders have continued to assert their identity and faith openly. FBI Director Kash Patel, whose appointment marked a historic milestone as the first Indian-American to lead the bureau, took his oath on the Bhagavad Gita—symbolizing increased diversity in the U.S. government.

Despite hostility, Patel and other leaders received public recognition. Two days after the social media storm, President Trump hosted an official Diwali celebration in the Oval Office with Patel and key Indian-American figures such as Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen and IBM CEO Arvind Krishna.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott also upheld an annual tradition by hosting Diwali festivities at the Governor’s Mansion with participation from the Indian Consul General and members of the Indo-American community. Diwali greetings also came from lawmakers across party lines including Democrats Ro Khanna and Suzan DelBene, and Republicans Pete Sessions and Brian Fitzpatrick, indicating bipartisan support.

Cultural significance and growing visibility of Diwali in the U.S.

Diwali, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, has grown into a vibrant cultural event in American society. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness, resonating beyond religious boundaries.

Across cities from New York to San Francisco, families light diyas and share sweets, bringing communities together. New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani highlighted how Diwali “makes New York shine brighter” by celebrating diversity and traditions.

This growing public visibility reflects the influence of the Indian diaspora and a broader American acceptance of multiculturalism despite persistent challenges. The rising awareness and official observances signal a positive shift toward inclusion in the face of intolerance.

Debates over assimilation and American identity

The backlash touched on broader debates about American identity and religious freedom. Some users criticized Indian-American leaders for promoting “pagan” or “foreign” holidays, reflecting a narrow definition of what it means to be American.

Meanwhile, leaders like Patel and Ramaswamy confront questions about their legitimacy to represent primarily Christian constituencies. At a political event in Montana, Ramaswamy faced inquiries on whether a Hindu could represent a Christian-majority state, exposing underlying religious biases.

Spotlight on misinformation and cultural misunderstanding

The virulent reactions expose widespread ignorance about India and Hinduism. Joel Webbon’s “sand demons” comment and other similar remarks reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of Indian culture and religion, further fueled by xenophobic rhetoric.

This misinformation complicates the position of Indian-Americans in public life, forcing them to repeatedly defend their faith and heritage within a political climate polarized by identity politics.

Personal stories and cultural connections

Amid the political controversy, cultural stories around Diwali also surfaced. Bengaluru-based jeweller Sharath Kumar reminisced about Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani’s visit to his store two decades ago. The enduring relationship is symbolized by Ambani’s annual Diwali greetings to the jeweller and her display of traditional temple jewellery crafted by the store during high-profile events.

These personal narratives highlight the rich cultural tapestry Diwali embodies and its significance in forging lasting bonds beyond politics.

Conclusion

The backlash against Indian-American politicians for their Diwali greetings spotlights persistent issues of xenophobia, religious intolerance, and racial prejudice within segments of American society, particularly in MAGA-aligned groups. Yet, widespread celebrations, bipartisan political acknowledgment, and cultural stories resist these divisive currents, emphasizing hope, unity, and the growing mosaic of American identity. Diwali’s increasing prominence in U.S. public life underscores the important role Indian-Americans play in shaping a more inclusive future.