Washington: Usha Vance, Second Lady of the United States, has described her family’s recent visit to India as a "trip of a lifetime", sharing heartwarming anecdotes about her children’s experience and their affectionate meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington on Monday, she reflected on the deeply personal and cultural significance of the journey.

Mrs Vance revealed that it was the first time her children had visited India, calling the experience “mind-blowing” for them. The trip included stops at several North Indian landmarks, including the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and Delhi’s Akshardham Temple. The family also explored Indian arts and culture, attending a puppet show featuring scenes from the Ramayana, with performances from across India—including Andhra Pradesh, where Mrs Vance’s family originates.

Children enchanted by Indian culture and PM Modi

A particular highlight, she said, was the meeting with Prime Minister Modi at his official residence in New Delhi. She recalled how her children, having previously met Modi in Paris, had instantly warmed to him--mistaking him for a grandfatherly figure. “They just love him,” she said, recalling how they ran to hug the Prime Minister upon arrival.

Mrs Vance noted that the Prime Minister had given her five-year-old son a birthday gift during their first meeting, endearing him further to the children. During the Delhi visit, the children explored the lawns, admired a bird feeder, and were given peacock feathers as mementoes. “Our son was so taken by the cart of mangoes that he announced to the Prime Minister he thought he could live there,” she laughed.

Each child had their own standout moment: the eldest, Ewan, was captivated by intricate temple sculptures; middle child Vivek was delighted by encounters with elephants, camels, and peacocks; while their youngest, Mirabel, thoroughly enjoyed her ride in an auto-rickshaw, facilitated by Secret Service in a secured area.

The family also enjoyed Indian cuisine and admired the peacocks they encountered throughout their travels. “It was just sort of one hit after another,” Mrs Vance said, praising the food, the art, and the hospitality they received. She said she and Vice President JD Vance are already looking forward to their next visit, hoping to explore parts of southern India connected to her family.

In addition to the cultural experiences, Mrs Vance highlighted the significance of the visit for strengthening personal ties between her husband and Prime Minister Modi. “It was a productive conversation for JD and the Prime Minister, but also a real opportunity to cement that personal relationship,” she said.

JD Vance, accompanied by Usha and their three children, was on a four-day official visit to India in April. The family’s visit marked a blend of diplomacy and personal connection, reflecting the deepening ties between the United States and India.