U.S. Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance and their three children, visited the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi on April 21, 2025. This visit marked a significant moment in their four-day diplomatic and cultural tour of India, aimed at fostering stronger bilateral relations and promoting cultural exchange.
The Vance family arrived at Palam Airbase at 9:30 AM IST, where they were warmly welcomed by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and honored with a ceremonial guard of honor. At the Akshardham Temple, the family engaged in traditional rituals and explored the temple complex. Their children, dressed in Indian ethnic attire, showcased the family’s admiration for Indian culture.
This visit held personal importance for Vice President Vance, as his wife, Usha Vance, is of Indian origin. The couple has often emphasized their dedication to embracing both their cultural heritages. Raised in a Hindu household, Usha has supported JD Vance’s Catholic faith, and together they are raising their children with an appreciation for both traditions.
The Akshardham Temple visit is one of several cultural activities planned during their stay, which also includes trips to the Taj Mahal and Amer Fort. These engagements complement the Vice President’s official meetings with Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on enhancing trade relations and regional security cooperation.
The Vance family’s visit to Akshardham highlights the intersection of personal heritage and diplomatic duties, underscoring the role of cultural understanding in strengthening international relations.
