Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 15 SPECIAL REPORT May 29, 2026 N ew Delhi turned red, white, and blue for an unforgettable celebra- tion May 24, 2026, to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor hosted a spectacular celebra- tion of America’s 250th National Day, bringing together leaders, partners, and friends to mark this historic milestone and the strength of the U.S.-India part- nership. From electrifying performances by AR Rahman and the Village People to to the presence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as the Indian Ex- ternal Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The evening was filled with unforget- table moments, the US Embassy said. “A surprise call from President Trump and a birthday celebration for Secretary Rubio made the night even more special,” US Embassy in New Delhi posted on social media. The presentation traced the evolution of Hindi filmmusic through live sing- ing and dance performances and was warmly received by attendees. Organizers said the two-day celebra- tion reflected not only the success of the institution but also the strong emotional bond shared among members, many of whom attended dressed as though celebrating a family wedding. Throughout the anniversary weekend, attendees praised the careful plan- ning, disciplined execution and warm atmosphere created by volunteers and organizing committees. From breakfast to lunch and dinner, the event featured a variety of Gujarati and Indian cuisine, reflecting the cultural heritage of the community. Organizers said the Pearl Anniver- sary was not merely the completion of 30 years, but a celebration of affection, companionship, cultural pride, humani- tarian spirit and collective community achievement. New Delhi Turned Red, White, And Blue For An Unforgettable 250th Celebration By a StaffWriter PHOTOS:US EMBASSY IN NEW DELHI From left, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and EAM S. Jaishankar during celebration of America’s 250th. Above and below: performances at America’s 250th celebrations in New Delhi. O scar-winning composer and music maestro AR Rahman delivered a stirring performance at the 250th US Independence Day celebra- tions in New Delhi, with his iconic anthem ‘Jai Ho’ emerging as the highlight of the evening. The US gained independence from Britain on July 4, 1776. The grand event, hosted by the US Embassy in India, brought together senior diplomats, political leaders, business representatives and cultural figures in a showcase of the growing India-US partnership. Among the prominent dignitaries present were Ex- ternal Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Ambassador Sergio Gor. Rahman’s electrifying rendition of ‘Jai Ho’ re- ceived a rousing response from guests, with the per- formance symbolising the cultural bridge between India and the United States. The composer also performed a medley of his celebrated tracks like ‘Dil Se’, ‘Muqabla’, and ‘Fanaa’. The celebration formed part of Rubio’s ongoing India visit, which includes high-level diplomatic engagements and meetings with Indian leadership. Speaking at the event, US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared, “America first does not mean America alone. And every week, we identify opportunities that are win-win situations for both of our nations. I’m espe- cially proud that this spring our embassy brought a record-breaking delegation, which will continue over the weeks and months ahead, as we continue our work here in India…” Notably, Rubio is currently on a four-day visit to India, during which he will be attending the Quad For- eign Ministers’ Meeting in the national capital. India is gearing up to host the security dialogue in the national capital to deliberate on the evolving security matrix of the Indo-Pacific and the escalat- ing friction points acrossWest Asia. The high-level congregation of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue – bringing together India, the United States, Australia, and Japan – is locked in for May 26 under the chairmanship of EAM Jaishankar. - ANI AR Rahman’s ‘Jai Ho’ Resonates At US 250th Independence Day Celebrations In Delhi PHOTO:ANI ‘Jai Ho’ performance during visit of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.