Usha Vance, the wife of U.S. Vice President JD Vance, has shared touching insights from her family’s visit to India earlier this year. Calling it the “trip of a lifetime,” she spoke about the warm hospitality shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described how her children were charmed by the experience, especially during a personal meeting at the PM’s residence.
Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington, Usha Vance emphasized how deeply meaningful the trip was, particularly because it marked her children’s first time in India. From cultural experiences to iconic landmarks, the family had a memorable journey through North India, visiting the Taj Mahal, Akshardham Temple, and the Amber Fort. They also explored local markets like the Central Cottage Industries Emporium.
Recalling the visit to PM Modi's residence, Usha noted how her children immediately connected with the Prime Minister, whom they affectionately viewed as a grandfather figure. “They just ran up to him and hugged him,” she said. “He was incredibly kind and generous. My son still remembers how he was gifted a birthday present by him when we met in Paris.”
The meeting was more than ceremonial it was filled with warmth and personal touches. PM Modi shared peacock feathers with the children and allowed them to explore his residence freely, including a playful moment where they discovered the bird feeder and explored the lawns. According to Usha, one of her sons was so comfortable that he announced his desire to live there.
The visit also included a special puppet show showcasing traditional Indian storytelling, including scenes from the Ramayana and regional performances from Andhra Pradesh, where Usha’s family has roots. Her children were enthralled and even attempted to recreate parts of the puppet show at home using construction paper. Each child found joy in different aspects of the trip. Her eldest son, Ewan, was captivated by temple sculptures. Middle child Vivek loved seeing elephants, camels, and peacocks. Their daughter, Mirabel, was delighted by a ride in an auto-rickshaw arranged in a secure area with the help of the Secret Service.
Usha Vance described the overall experience as unforgettable, not just because of the iconic sights but due to the cultural immersion and personal connection with India. She expressed her family's eagerness to return, particularly to explore the regions her family hails from in South India. As India and the U.S. continue to strengthen strategic ties, such personal, heartfelt interactions between leaders and their families underscore the growing warmth in the relationship. The Vance family’s experience illustrates how diplomacy and culture can beautifully intersect, leaving a lasting impression on future generations.
