FBI Director Kash Patel Faces MAGA Backlash Over Diwali Celebration

FBI Director Kash Patel, the first Indian American to hold the position, celebrated Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, on social media, sparking significant backlash from MAGA supporters and some Christian conservatives who criticized the recognition of a non-Christian holiday. Patel’s post, which highlighted Diwali as a celebration of good triumphing over evil, drew comments denouncing the festival as incompatible with American or Christian traditions, with some users making xenophobic and hostile remarks. Despite the criticism, President Donald Trump also issued an official White House message recognizing Diwali, emphasizing its themes of light overcoming darkness and community renewal. Diwali’s observance has been growing in the United States, with several states, including California, officially recognizing it as a holiday. Supporters of Patel and the holiday pointed to the constitutional protection of religious freedom and highlighted Diwali's increasing prominence in American cultural life. This controversy underscores the ongoing tensions within parts of the MAGA base regarding religious diversity and national identity.