Tens of thousands flock to massive Donald Trump stadium rally as he praises 'great Indian nation'

Jacob Jarvis25 February 2020

Donald Trump praised the "great Indian nation" as he addressed a huge crowd during a rally today.

The US president addressed masses at a "Namaste Trump" rally held in the world's biggest cricket stadium.

Commending the nation's culture and its mix of religions and languages, the US leader said: "Your unity is an inspiration to the world."

The president spoke of "125,000 beating hearts" in the crowds at the Sardar Patel stadium - with estimates prior to the event suggesting around 100,000 would be in attendance.

Donald Trump visits India - In pictures

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Ending his speech, he said: "God bless India, god bless the United States of America. We love you."

He and first lady Melania arrived in Ahmedabad in western India this morning and he was hugged by Indian prime minister Narendra Modi after he disembarked Air Force One.

Donald Trump suggested more than 100,000 were in attendance
AP

The stadium was packed with onlookers, many of whom wore Mr Trump and Mr Modi masks, who listened to both traditional and pop Indian music ahead of the leaders' arrival.

Mr Trump travelled in a motorcade to the stadium going alongside a newly constructed wall, built for his visit , blocking off a neigbouring slum.

Donald Trump and Narendra Modi both addressed the crowds
AFP via Getty Images

The president's first stop was a visit to Gandhi's home, where he donned a prayer shawl and took off his shoes in the visit to the ashram.

There will also be a visit a trip to the famed Taj Mahal later on today.

There have been fears that monkeys at the famed Taj Mahal site could attack Mr Trump, with tourists having faced recent problems, and local reports suggest men with slingshots have been hired to keep them at bay should they been an issue.

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