US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi found themselves engaged in a delightful exchange of lighthearted moments during the state dinner at the White House. A highlight of the evening was when both leaders, known for their abstinence from alcohol, raised a toast in a unique and memorable way. President Biden, seizing the opportunity, regaled the guests with a charming story that originated from his wise grandfather’s advice on the art of toasting without the need for alcoholic beverages.
Addressing the prestigious gathering, with an estimated attendance of approximately 400 attendees, President Biden recounted the words of his late grandfather, Ambrose Finnegan, who would often remark, “If you give a toast and you don’t have any alcohol in the glass, you must do it with your left hand. You all think I’m kidding. I’m not.”
The guests present in the audience burst into laughter as the translator attempted to translate it into Hindi.
“Jill and I have had a wonderful time with the Prime Minster today, during your truly productive visit. Tonight we celebrate the great bonds of friendship between India and the United States,” Biden said.
Prime Minister Modi conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the US President and First Lady Jill Biden for their gracious hospitality in hosting the dinner and welcoming him with open arms.
“I want to thank US President Joe Biden for this wonderful dinner today. I would also like to thank First Lady Jill Biden for taking care of my visit to make it successful. Yesterday evening you opened the doors of your house for me,” PM Modi said.
“This evening is made special by the presence of the people of our two countries, they are our most precious assets,” the prime minister said, adding that the guests in the audience “symbolise a lot about the US-India relationship – our energy, our dynamism, and our potential.”
A remarkable blend of influential figures from the realms of business, fashion, entertainment, and beyond graced the guest list for the highly anticipated White House dinner held on Thursday to honor PM Modi. Esteemed personalities such as designer Ralph Lauren, filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, and tennis legend Billie Jean King shared the same space as tech visionaries from Apple, Google, and Microsoft, creating an atmosphere brimming with brilliance and diversity.
