Renowned American singer Mary Millben has strongly defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Indian leader was “frightened of Trump.” Taking to X, Millben dismissed Gandhi’s claims and praised Modi’s leadership as strategic, visionary, and grounded in India’s best interests. She stated that the Prime Minister’s relationship with former US President Donald Trump reflected mutual respect and pragmatic diplomacy, not fear or submission.
In her post, Millben wrote, “You are wrong, Rahul Gandhi. Prime Minister Modi is not afraid of President Trump. His diplomacy with the US is strategic. Just as the President will always put America’s interests first, Prime Minister Modi will always do what is best for India. And I applaud that.” Her statement quickly went viral, with thousands of supporters echoing her sentiment across social media platforms.
You are wrong, @RahulGandhi.
— Mary Millben (@MaryMillben) October 17, 2025
PM @narendramodi is not afraid of President Trump. PM Modi understands the long game and his diplomacy with the U.S. is strategic. Just as @POTUS will always put America’s interests first, so will PM Modi do what is best for India. And I applaud that.… https://t.co/4p0HNRCAv2
Mary Millben’s response came shortly after Rahul Gandhi accused Modi of being “afraid” to stand up to Trump on issues like trade, energy, and global alliances. Gandhi’s remarks were part of a broader criticism aimed at questioning Modi’s handling of India-US relations. However, Millben’s rebuttal turned the conversation around, describing Modi as a global statesman who prioritises national interest over political optics.
Continuing her statement, Millben didn’t hold back in her criticism of the Congress leader, saying, “I don’t expect you to understand this type of leadership because you don’t possess the acumen to be Prime Minister of India. Best to return to your ‘I hate India’ tour that has an audience of one — you.” Her sharp words struck a chord among Modi’s supporters and reignited debates over the political maturity of India’s opposition leadership.
A night I will treasure forever.
— Mary Millben (@MaryMillben) June 24, 2023
Thank you Prime Minister @narendramodi for your kindness and warmth. An honor to sing for you. Thank you @DDNewslive for airing. India and Indian communities across the world, I love you! God bless the #USIndia alliance. #ModiInUS #PMModiUSVisit https://t.co/FosSOtjL87
Millben, who has long admired India’s culture and leadership, is well-known among Indian audiences. She performed during Prime Minister Modi’s 2020 visit to the US and has often spoken about her deep respect for India’s democratic values and growing influence on the world stage. Her public endorsement of Modi once again highlights her belief in his global vision and his role in strengthening India’s position in international diplomacy.
The exchange between Gandhi and Millben also reflects how India’s internal political discourse increasingly draws reactions from global voices. As one of the most recognisable international figures to comment on Indian politics, Millben’s statements carry symbolic weight. Her remarks not only defend Modi but also project India’s leadership as firm, confident, and respected globally. For the Indian diaspora in Australia and beyond, this moment underscores the deep global interest in India’s political landscape and the recognition its leaders command on the world stage.
