Outgoing US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti posted an emotional farewell message reflecting on his tenure in the country. In a heartwarming video posted on X (formerly Twitter), Garcetti said that he had been deeply connected to India, first visiting as a child and then as a student. He recalled the warmth, hospitality, and vibrant culture of India, which left an indelible mark on him during his tenure as ambassador.
Garcetti expressed his gratitude for the “dosti” (friendship) and “zinda dili” (spirit) of the people of India, saying that it touched his heart every day. Garcetti went on to highlight the experience he had traversing around India, from Varanasi to Meghalaya, Kerala, Mumbai to Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore. He also recalled festivals, music, food, and art that made his experience richer and left “an indelible place in my heart.”.
In his farewell message, Garcetti speaks about the unbreakable tie between the US and India with confidence in future growth. It ends with an iconic dialogue of Shah Rukh Khan in *Om Shanti Om*: “Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost!”
Garcetti posted on X: “As I leave India after serving as the 26th U.S. Ambassador to this incredible country, my heart is full. You have given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador—I leave as a lifelong friend and supporter of #USIndiaFWDfortheFuture.”
Eric Garcetti had earlier met Shah Rukh Khan at his Mumbai home, Mannat, in 2023. He recalled the meeting, saying he had discussed cricket and later realized the immense love and admiration for SRK across India. “Everyone in my office went nuts,” he had shared in a 2024 interview with ANI.
The farewell message of Garcetti, laced with emotions and a Bollywood flavor, has only endeared him more to Indians, leaving behind a legacy of friendship and goodwill.
As I bid farewell to India after serving as the 26th U.S. Ambassador to this amazing country, my heart is full. You’ve given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador—I leave as a lifelong friend and… pic.twitter.com/FEB6YqoRlm
— U.S. Ambassador to India (@USAmbIndia) January 19, 2025
