A phone call from US President Donald Trump to US Ambassador Sergio Gor, played over the microphone, capped the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence in New Delhi on Sunday evening.
In his remarks, Trump was effusive in his praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and underscored the strength of India-US ties. “I love the Prime Minister. Modi is great, he’s my friend,” Trump said, adding, “I’m a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi.”
Referring to bilateral ties, Trump said, “We’ve never been closer to India and India can count on me 100% and our country. If they ever need help, they know where to call.”
The remarks come as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits India on his first official trip to the country, aimed at reinvigorating relations between the world’s oldest and largest democracies after months of strain over issues including trade tariffs, visa restrictions and Washington’s growing engagement with Pakistan. Rubio met Prime Minister Modi on Saturday before holding talks with External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Sunday.
The celebratory mood at Bharat Mandapam blended diplomacy with Bollywood. Walls and stage backdrops in the multifunction hall were adorned with “Happy Birthday America” signs, while guests got themselves clicked at photo booths designed to resemble the Oval Office and the US State Department briefing room. A man wearing a top hat patterned with the American flag mingled with attendees, posing for photographs.
The evening opened with a Presentation of Colours by US Guards before Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman launched into an hour-long performance featuring some of his most celebrated hits, including Jai Ho, setting the tone for an evening that mixed spectacle, music and strategic messaging.
With 4 July 2026 set to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence, the US embassy has taken the celebrations beyond the ballroom and onto the streets of the capital, using autorickshaws across Delhi to carry birthday messages commemorating the historic milestone – a colourful reminder of America’s year-long outreach around its landmark anniversary.
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