Indian-origin FBI director Kash Patel's 'Happy Holi' post triggers racist backlash: 'Stop UnAmerican festivals in America' demand netizens

Kash Patel’s “Happy Holi” post recently triggered racists on X. On Friday, the Indian-origin FBI director took to X to share a rather colourful picture along with the caption “Happy Holi: The Festival of Colours.” The post sparked the ire of some racist netizens. Quite a few X users flooded the comment section, saying they were miffed that a government official was celebrating “UnAmerican Festivals.”

Netizens React

One X user named 'White4Life” wrote, “This is America...”

Another commented, “I wish my government workers only celebrated American holidays.” Another tweeted, “Cringe. You realize we don’t celebrate this holiday in America. Read the room. We don’t want to hear about this.”



However, many comments were positive. Some users wrote how the festival of colors was at it’s essence, the ultimate triumph of good over evil. “Now this is a holiday I could get to like..Especially the GOOD over EVIL part

Holi marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil, rooted in the legend of Holika and Prahlad. It’s a time for people to come together, forgive past grievances, and renew relationships. The festival is famous for its playful traditions—people throw colored powders (gulal) and water at each other, sing, dance, and feast. Bonfires are lit the night before (Holika Dahan) to symbolize burning away negativity." read one comment.

Another commented, “Happy Holi! A beautiful celebration of colour, joy, and renewal.” A third expressed, “Wishing everyone a joyful and vibrant Holi!” Another comment read, “Wishing you a colourful, blessed Holi.”

Kash Patel’s Indian Heritage

Born in New York in 1980 to parents of Gujarati descent, Kash Patel has always maintained a deep connection to his cultural roots. When he was officially sworn in as the ninth Director of the FBI, he chose to take his oath on the Bhagavad Gita, a gesture that reflected his reverence for his heritage. Previously, a video of Patel garnered admiration as it captured a heartfelt moment of him bowing to touch his parents' feet, a traditional Indian expression of respect and gratitude.