In a captivating account at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington, DC, US Second Lady Usha Vance recounted the unforgettable details of her family’s April visit to India, a journey filled with wonder, personal connection, and vibrant cultural experiences.A first-time journey filled with discoveryUsha Vance described the trip as “the trip of a lifetime” for her children, who had never set foot in India before. “They’d grown up hearing the stories about our family, the food, and the rich traditions, but to finally see it all in person was simply mind-blowing,” she recalled during a fireside chat at the eighth edition of the USISPF Leadership Summit. From savoring authentic Indian cuisine to marveling at iconic landmarks, every moment of the journey added a new layer to their understanding of the country’s heritage.A heartwarming encounter with Prime Minister ModiOne of the most memorable highlights of the trip was meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an encounter that forged a remarkably personal connection. The Vance children, still sleep-deprived from earlier travels in Paris, instantly took a liking to Modi when they saw “an Indian man with a white beard and white hair,” as Usha described.“From the moment we met him, our kids embraced him as their ‘grandfather’ figure,” she said. Their adoration was further cemented when, during a prior encounter in Paris, PM Modi presented a birthday gift to their five-year-old son. Later, at his residence in New Delhi, the children’s affection overflowed; they ran up to him and hugged him, a gesture that spoke volumes about his kindness and generosity.Usha emphasized that the productive conversations between Prime Minister Modi and her husband, Vice President JD Vance, not only reinforced diplomatic ties but also deepened personal bonds, something that she believes will bolster the future of US-India relations.Cultural extravaganza: Exploring India’s heritageThe visit was more than just political or diplomatic; it was a deep cultural immersion. The Vance family explored some of North India’s most treasured sites:
- Iconic landmarks: The family marveled at the Taj Mahal in Agra early in the morning, basking in the soft glow of dawn against cool, blue skies. They also toured Amber Fort in Jaipur and the awe-inspiring Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi.
- Local experiences: Usha recounted the thrill of riding in an auto-rickshaw, a particular highlight for her daughter, Mirabel. The Secret Service even allowed a brief enclosed drive, adding to the excitement for the little one.
- Puppet shows and craftsmanship: Attending a puppet show featuring segments from the Ramayana and comedic animal performances was a standout experience. The performance, which boasted puppeteering talents from across the country, including Andhra Pradesh (Usha’s ancestral home), left her children so inspired that they’ve been trying to recreate similar shows using construction paper.
Moments of childlike wonderBeyond the historical and political significance of the trip, it was the small, personal moments that resonated most deeply with the Vance children.Ewan, the eldest, was captivated by the intricate temple sculptures, describing them as a revelation of ancient craftsmanship that he had only previously encountered through stories. Vivek, the middle child, found joy in every interaction with India’s wildlife, from elephants and peacocks to the charming camel encounters. Perhaps the most humorous moment came when a cart full of mangoes caught their son’s eye; so enchanted was he by the treat, he jokingly told Prime Minister Modi that he might just live there, planning his future among the fruit-laden displays.Strengthening the US-India bondFor Usha Vance, the significance of the visit extended well beyond sightseeing. With deep personal roots bridging India and the United States, she sees the relationship between the two nations as both political and profoundly personal. “I have family in India, and I grew up with visits that forged lasting bonds,” she explained. “This isn’t just about diplomacy, it’s about families, memories, and mutual respect.”Her reflections at the forum reiterated the potential for future cooperation, especially as both nations navigate challenges and opportunities on the global stage. With the upcoming Global Leadership Awards at the summit highlighting key figures from the QUAD nations, the event underscored that strong bilateral relationships are built not only on economic and strategic ties but also on deeply human connections.A lasting legacy of warmth and connectionAs the Vance family’s stories continue to inspire, Usha Vance’s heartfelt narrative serves as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and personal diplomacy. With memories of warm embraces, captivating landmarks, and little adventures like auto-rickshaw rides and mango indulgences, the trip stands as a lasting reminder that the strongest ties often begin with a shared smile and an open heart.For the Vances and for many who cherish the bridge between the United States and India, this journey will be remembered as a pivotal moment, one that transformed political visits into personal stories of connection and wonder.
