US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has expressed her deep appreciation for India, describing it as a place where she “always feels at home.”
During her visit, Gabbard spoke about her admiration for Indian culture, cuisine, and spirituality, emphasizing the influence of the Bhagavad Gita on her life.
#WATCH | Delhi | US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard says, "Whether serving in war zones in different parts of the world or the challenges that we face now, it is (Lord) Krishna's teachings to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita that I turn to in the best of times and the… pic.twitter.com/RlvcPVuqjg
— ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2025
In an interview with media on Monday, she stated, “Let me just say, I love so much about India. I always feel at home when I’m here.”
She further added, “The people are so welcoming and kind, and the food is always delicious. Dal Makhani and anything with fresh paneer are my favourites.”
Gabbard, who has served in the US Army Reserve for over two decades, shared that Krishna’s teachings to Arjuna provide her with strength, peace, and comfort in her daily life.
“My personal spiritual practice and relationship with God are at the center of my life. Every day, I do my best to live in a way that is pleasing to God and to be of service to all of God’s children,” she said.
Reflecting on the Bhagavad Gita, she added, “At different times in my life, whether serving in war zones or facing challenges today, I turn to Krishna’s teachings to Arjuna. These teachings provide me with strength, peace, and great comfort through all my days.”
Gabbard arrived in India as part of her multi-nation visit, marking her first trip to the country since assuming office as the US Director of National Intelligence. The Asia leg of her visit will conclude with her keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue on March 18.
Her visit follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to the US in February, where he met Gabbard and praised her as a “strong votary” of India-US relations. Gabbard called it an “honor” to welcome PM Modi and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
According to the official website of the Raisina Dialogue, Gabbard will participate in a conversation with Samir Saran, President of the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).
The 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, co-hosted by the Ministry of External Affairs and ORF, begins today.