EXCLUSIVE: “A Historic Victory Amidst Challenges”- Shalabh Kumar on Trump’s Win

Following Donald Trump’s recent declaration of victory over Kamala Harris, Shalabh ‘Shalli’ Kumar, a prominent Indian American industrialist and founder of the Republican Hindu Coalition (RHC), spoke to BW Businessworld about the landmark moment. 

Known for his influential role in Trump’s outreach to Indian American voters, Kumar described the victory as a validation of Trump’s journey and values. “The man was vilified for eight years…Russia collusion, impeachment… but the country finally spoke,” Kumar remarked. He referred to the victory as “the most fabulous Diwali gift for Hindus worldwide, Bharat, PM Modi, and U.S. citizens.”

Kumar’s role as a close ally of Trump and his relentless support for the Republican agenda have played a significant role in Trump’s popularity among Indian American voters. Reflecting on his journey with Trump, Kumar explained how he has been central to the former president’s outreach to the Hindu American community since 2016. His involvement began when he served as chairman of Trump’s Indian Advisory Board and led the “Abki Baar Trump Sarkar” campaign, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s slogan. The campaign included advertisements in which Trump himself praised Hindus and Indians, reinforcing his admiration for the community.

In the weeks leading up to the election, Kumar led a $1.2 million campaign to mobilize Hindu American and Indian American support for Trump. His efforts included organized rallies, digital engagement, and strategic outreach, aimed at reinforcing Trump’s message among the Indian diaspora. This initiative, he believes, significantly contributed to Trump’s margins in key battleground states, a factor Kumar highlighted when he discussed Trump’s 3% margin in these areas.

Kumar, based in Chicago, has spent years cultivating ties between the Indian American community and the Republican Party. His RHC has actively promoted the idea of strong U.S.-India relations, emphasizing how a Trump-led administration aligns with India’s interests. Kumar asserts that the reelection would benefit both countries, enhancing diplomatic, economic, and strategic cooperation underpinned by Trump’s longstanding support for India.