Utsav Sanduja, founder and chairman of the Hindus for America First PAC, highlighted the increasing support for President-elect Donald Trump within the Indian American community. He noted that their backing had grown significantly, rising from 22% in 2020 to 31% in 2024.
Speaking to ANI during the Presidential Inauguration Hindu Gala hosted by the American Hindu Coalition (AHC) on Sunday, Sanduja detailed the PAC’s efforts during Trump’s campaign. “We were able to increase the popular support from 22 per cent to 31 per cent from the Indian American community, in contrast from 2020 to now, present in 2024, and we were in all the seven battleground states,” he said. Sanduja emphasized Trump’s concern for the Hindu community, particularly regarding the issues faced by Hindus in Bangladesh, and expressed optimism about potential actions on this matter. “President Trump loves all Americans… He’s very concerned about Hindus in Bangladesh. I have been briefing his team about this for many months, and I’m so glad and grateful that President Trump cares about this issue. I’m hoping he will act. He will do something to implement on this file, and I have a lot of faith in the president,” Sanduja added.
The Hindus for America First PAC played a crucial role during Trump’s presidential campaign, engaging with voters across seven key battleground states. This marked a strategic effort to connect with Indian Americans and highlight Trump’s policies, which the group believes align with their community’s values and concerns. Sanduja noted that the rise in support was indicative of growing recognition of Trump’s leadership among Indian Americans.
The Hindu Gala event, described as historic by the AHC, was held at The Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., just a few blocks from the White House. It aimed to celebrate diversity, cultural heritage, and unity among communities. Sanduja emphasized that the event showcased a collective effort by people of different backgrounds to come together and support Trump. “We saw that a lot of people from different walks of life, different religions, and different races all came together in unity to support the President of the United States of America. Everyone is concerned about the welfare of our people, and they are working very diligently and hard to do some great things,” Sanduja remarked. He added, “I think the real highlight was just that everyone can come together in a show of force for this president, and there’s a good future for all of us.”
The Hindu Gala was the first event of its kind in U.S. history to center on Hinduism, signifying the growing visibility and influence of the Hindu community in American political and cultural spheres. According to the AHC, the event underscored the importance of fostering unity and celebrating the contributions of diverse communities. Members of the Latino community also joined hands with the AHC to mark the occasion, symbolizing cross-cultural solidarity. One Latino supporter at the event expressed enthusiasm, saying, “All I have to say is we have got to take America back again, and Trump did it.”
Donald Trump is set to take the oath of office as the 47th President of the United States on Monday at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. This marks his return to the presidency after serving as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021. The Hindu Gala event served as a precursor to this momentous occasion, reflecting the shared optimism and dedication of Trump’s supporters.
The event also highlighted the role of cultural engagement in building political alliances. Sanduja underscored the importance of collective action and collaboration, pointing to the unity among people from different walks of life. He expressed confidence in Trump’s leadership and his ability to address critical issues affecting various communities. For Sanduja and others in attendance, the event symbolized more than just political support—it was a celebration of shared values and a vision for the future.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House, his growing popularity among Indian Americans signals a shift in political dynamics. Sanduja’s remarks at the gala underscore the role of grassroots efforts, such as those by the Hindus for America First PAC, in shaping this support. By connecting with Indian American voters and addressing issues like the welfare of Hindus in Bangladesh, the group aims to solidify its influence and ensure that the concerns of the community are heard at the highest levels of government.
For attendees at the gala, including both Indian Americans and members of other communities, the event was an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to Trump’s leadership. Sanduja’s optimism and faith in Trump’s policies resonated with the audience, who viewed the event as a turning point for their collective efforts.
In conclusion, the Hindu Gala served as a platform to celebrate cultural diversity and strengthen political alliances. It reflected the growing support for Trump within the Indian American community and highlighted the shared aspirations of his supporters. As Sanduja noted, the event symbolized unity and a commitment to a brighter future under Trump’s leadership.