Editorial October 2025

Dear Readers,

Every autumn, as leaves turn golden in America, I discover myself transported back to my childhood in India. The festival of Diwali has always been more than lights and sweets—it is the heartbeat of our culture, a declaration that virtue will always triumph over evil, truth over falsehood, and light over darkness.

Even though I have lived in the U.S. for decades, Diwali here feels no less powerful. I watch our Indian-American families fill temples and community halls, children in colorful kurtas lighting sparklers, neighbors tasting mithai for the first time, and elders explaining the story of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya. And every year I realize: Diwali in America is not just nostalgia—it is our way of declaring who we are, what we stand for, and why truth always wins.

Diwali in America: A Bridge of Light

Celebrating Diwali in the U.S. is more than carrying forward tradition—it is also about sharing our values with America. When our children explain the story of Rama and Sita to their classmates, or when city mayors light diyas at our community events, they are not just witnessing another culture’s holiday. They are hearing a universal truth: darkness does not win.

In a nation struggling with divisions, Diwali offers a message of unity. It reminds us that no matter our differences, light connects us all. As Indian-Americans, we have a responsibility to showcase Diwali not just as a cultural celebration but as a guiding principle: stand for truth, fight for what is right, and never lose faith in justice.

Diwali and the Eternal Triumph of Truth

At its core, Diwali is a reminder that no matter how strong falsehood appears, it cannot withstand the power of truth. Lord Rama’s return after defeating Ravana is not a story frozen in mythology; it is a living lesson for our times.

Recently, this truth has been tested in global politics. Under President Trump, India faced direct challenges. His administration imposed crushing tariffs on Indian goods—some as high as 50%—penalizing India while giving easier treatment to other nations. To make matters worse, he invited a senior Pakistani military leader to Washington, a move that rattled not only Indian-Americans but all Indians living all over the world and PM Modi’s administration. For those of us who have spent decades explaining to our American friends that India is a democratic ally while Pakistan has too often fueled instability and terrorism, the gesture was a bitter pill.

But Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not flinch. With calm determination, he stood firm. Modi refused to bend to threats, knowing that India’s strength—economic, strategic, and moral—was too great to be dismissed. His resolve forced the Trump administration to rethink. Eventually, the bluster gave way to reality, and Trump made a U-turn, returning to the negotiating table.

The negotiation was not just about trade. It was a modern reminder of Diwali’s central message: truth, patience, and courage will always outlast arrogance, intimidation, and short-term politics. India’s dignity was not only preserved—it was elevated.

The U.S.–India Relationship: A Partnership Tested

As an Indian-American, I believe strongly that the U.S. and India must be partners, not rivals. Both are great democracies, both believe in innovation, and are vital to global stability. However, American leaders frequently misunderstand India, sometimes viewing it as a rival and at other times equating it with Pakistan, which lacks both India’s stability and its democratic values.

The Trump years tested this relationship severely. But they also showed something important: India will not be bullied. India’s leadership stood strong, proving that it seeks partnerships built on mutual respect, not submission. And America, whether under Trump or any future president, will eventually recognize that India is not a country to be managed—it is a country to be embraced.

As we look forward, Diwali’s message should guide this partnership. If both nations commit to truth, fairness, and respect, their alliance can light the path for the entire world.

India’s Pride: The Asia Cup Victory

This Diwali season also brought another moment of pride: India lifting the Asia Cup for a record ninth time. The final against Pakistan was filled with tension. Pakistan’s batting collapsed under the pressure of India’s disciplined bowling, and when India stumbled early in its chase, nerves ran high. But then came the calm brilliance of Tilak Varma, whose unbeaten 69 anchored the innings. With Suryakumar Yadav by his side, India successfully completed the match, securing victory with five wickets remaining.

I watched the match with friends in Florida, and our cheers echoed through the walls. For a brief moment, the gap between America and Dubai vanished, uniting us in joy, pride, and belief.

This was not just a cricket win. It was a statement of resilience, teamwork, and determination—qualities that define India itself. Prime Minister Modi perfectly encapsulated the team’s victory, stating that it embodied India’s unwavering spirit. In many ways, the Asia Cup final was another Diwali lesson: challenges will come, doubts will arise, but with courage and discipline, victory is inevitable.

A Personal Reflection

When I light a diya this year in my Florida home, I will think of my parents in India who taught me that truth is the only path worth walking. I will think of my children and grandchildren, who carry this festival forward with joy and pride. And I will think of all of you—our Desh-Videsh family—who keep our culture alive in the U.S., making Diwali not just a Hindu festival but a global message of hope.

This Diwali, let us remember: darkness may roar, but it cannot endure. Whether in trade disputes, on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, or in a cricket stadium in Dubai, the law of dharma holds true. Goodness, courage, and determination will always prevail.

So let us celebrate boldly. Let us teach our children that Diwali is not just about firecrackers and sweets—it is about truth, resilience, and victory. And let us stand together, as Indians, as Americans, and as global citizens, to keep this flame burning brightly.

Happy Diwali to you and your family. May light always guide your path, and may truth always be your strength.

Raj Shah

Managing Editor