The Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has  lauded Hindu community’s contributions, what he described “fantastic” to world civilization and American culture.

The New York billionaire also confirmed that, he would be addressing an Indian-American event in New Jersey next month.

Mr. Trump said in a statement, that, “The Hindu community has made fantastic contributions to world civilization and to American culture and we look forward to celebrating our shared values of free enterprise, hard work, family values, and a strong American foreign policy.”

He issued a short 24-second video message inviting Indian-Americans to attend the “incredible” event on October 15. Mr. Trump said in his video message, that, “Hello everyone, it is my pleasure to invite you to a Republican Hindu Coalition rally at the PNC Arts Center in New Jersey. I am very much looking forward to speaking to thousands of Indian-Americans and others about making America great again. I look forward to seeing everybody there. It would be an incredible evening.”

The Trump Campaign said that, the all-day event brings together top actors, singers and dancers from Bollywood, Hindu spiritual and civic leaders for a celebration of Hindu culture and heritage. “The proceeds of the event will benefit global victims of Islamic terror,” the campaign said.

“I am looking forward to joining my good friend Shalli Kumar, founder and chairman of the Republican Hindu Coalition for this terrific event,” Mr. Trump said in an accompanying statement issued by his campaign.

On the other hand, Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential nominee, has held and attended a series of fund raisers organized by Indian Americans across the country including at their homes.

But those are all closed door events away from public glare.

Ms. Clinton (68), often called as Senator from Punjab and has a large following among the Indian-Americans is yet to make any public appearance before the community.

Also Read: Obama awarded Indian-origin physician with National Humanities Medal!

- Nandini